Treatment Of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Research Articles

Subcutaneous Anterior Transposition With Modified Procedures to Prevent Recurrence Associated With the Transposed Ulnar Nerve.

Subcutaneous anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve is a common surgical treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome. However, there are surgical failures associated with the new compressive sites at the edge of flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU) and resubluxation posterior to the medial epicondyle of the transposed nerve. To reduce the muscle volume at the edge of FCU, we approach the ulnar nerve by dividing the muscle belly of the FCU humeral heads. This procedure can reduce repeated traction forces on the transposed nerve at the edge of the FCU. To keep the transposed ulnar nerve anteriorly, we use a fat flap including the membranous superficial fascia. This flap can softly stabilize the ulnar nerve and act as a pliable cover to prevent perineural scarring or further constriction around the flap. Ninety-three elbows in 90 patients who had undergone this procedure for cubital tunnel syndrome were evaluated. According to Messina's criteria, the numbers of patients showing excellent, good, fair, and poor recovery were 41 (44%), 47 (51%), 5 (5%), and 0 (0%), respectively. Most patients experience resolution of symptoms and good functional outcomes. None of the patients suffered recurrence, infection, or nerve injury.

Single-center experience of cubital tunnel syndrome surgery performing transposition or internal neurolysis with external decompression under regional intravenous anesthesia technique

Aims: To share the 7-year experience of a single center in the application of regional intravenous anesthesia (RIVA) for surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome (CTS) caused by compression of the ulnar nerve in the elbow region.
 Methods: A total of 100 patients with CTS who were operated with the RIVA technique at a single center between 2012 and 2019 were retrospectively analyzed. In the RIVA technique, after providing venous drainage in the operated side arm, the double cuff tourniquet was inflated in the upper arm, and anesthesia was provided by administering a 30-40 mL solution of 2% lidocaine (3 mg/kg) diluted in 1% saline through the intravenous catheter. The surgical methods applied (transposition or internal neurolysis with external decompression), demographic data, preoperative and postoperative visual analog scale (VAS) scores for pain were compared.
 Results: Out of 100 patients, 30 patients underwent surgical transposition (group 1) while internal neurolysis with external decompression was performed in 70 patients (group 2). The mean age of patients in groups 1 and 2 was 66.3±12.1 and 60.6±11.7 years, respectively. Women accounted for 73.3% of patients in group 1 and 87.1% of patients in group 2. The left side was affected in 18 (60%) patients in group 1 and 42 (60%) patients in group 2. In group 1, the mean postoperative 3rd-week VAS score (1.96±0.76) was significantly lower than the mean preoperative VAS score (7.46±0.93; p

Application of ulnar nerve diameter changes examined by HRUS in patients with cubital tunnel syndrome

To evaluate the value of high-resolution ultrasound the diagnosis and prognosis of cubital tunnel syndrome. From January 2018 to June 2019, 47 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome were treated with ulnar nerve release and anterior subcutaneous transposition. There were 41 males and 6 females, aged from 27 to 73 years old. There were 31 cases on the right, 15 cases on the left, and 1 case on both sides. The diameter of ulnar nerve was measured by high-resolution ultrasound pre-and post-operatively, and measured directly during the operation. The recovery status of the patients was evaluated by the trial standard of ulnar nerve function assessment, and the satisfaction of the patients was assessed. All the 47 cases were followed up for an average of 12 months and the incisions healed well. The diameter of ulnar nerve at the compression level was (0.16±0.04) cm pre-operatively, and the diameter of ulnar nerve was (0.23±0.04) cm post-operatively. The evaluation of ulnar nerve function:excellent in 16 cases, good in 18 cases and fair in 13 cases. Twelve months post-operatively, 28 patients were satisfied, 10 patients were general and 9 patients were dissatisfied. The preoperative examination of ulnar nerve by high-resolution ultrasound is consistent with the intuitive measurement during operation, and the result of postoperative examination of ulnar nerve by high-resolution ultrasound is consistent with follow-up results. High-resolution ultrasound is an effective auxiliary method for the diagnosis and treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome.

A complete analysis of the surgical treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome: an umbrella review.

Numerous original studies have been presented regarding various surgical treatments for cubital tunnel syndrome (CubTS). The results of these analyses regarding the different surgical treatments for CubTS frequently differ and, in some cases, contradict each other, creating confusion. Therefore, our umbrella review aimed to summarize the evidence from meta-analyses and systematic reviews regarding the surgical treatments of CubTS, and along with the new, more detailed outcomes, provide an evidence-based tool for surgeons performing these procedures. To perform this umbrella review, a systematic search was conducted for meta-analyses investigating CubTS in PubMed, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, BIOSIS, and EBSCO medical databases. Detailed comparison of surgical outcomes, such as clinical improvement, complications, or reoperation rates, of different treatment methods for CubTS was performed. New risk ratios in all categories were established based on all of the primary studies available in the literature. The goal of the present umbrella review was to gather and summarize all data about the surgical treatments for CubTS in the available literature and provide new outcomes and an evidence-based tool for surgeons performing these procedures. Each comparison of the surgical techniques has been discussed, and the present study's results were compared with the outcomes of the previous studies.

Morphological Changes of Medial Epicondyle-Olecranon Ligament and Ulnar Nerve in the Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: An Ultrasonic Study.

ObjectiveFew studies have performed detailed ultrasound measurements of medial epicondyle‐olecranon (MEO) ligament that cause the entrapment of ulnar nerve. This study aims to comprehensively evaluate dynamic ultrasonographic characteristics of MEO ligament and ulnar nerve for clinical diagnosis and accurate treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS).MethodsThirty CuTS patients (CuTS group) and sixteen healthy volunteers (control group) who underwent ultrasound scanning from October 2016 to October 2020 were retrospectively collected, with 30 elbows in each group. Primary outcomes were thickness at six points, length and width of MEO ligament. Secondary outcomes were thickness of ulnar nerve under MEO ligament at seven parts and the cross‐sectional area (CSA) of ulnar nerve at proximal end of MEO ligament (P0 mm). The thickness of MEO ligament and ulnar nerve in different points of each group was compared by one‐way ANOVA analysis with Bonferroni post hoc test, other outcomes were compared between two elbow positions or two groups using independent‐samples t test.ResultsThickness of MEO ligament in CuTS group at epicondyle end, midpoint in transverse view, olecranon end, proximal end, midpoint in axial view, and distal end was 0.67 ± 0.31, 0.37 ± 0.18, 0.89 ± 0.35, 0.39 ± 0.21, 0.51 ± 0.38, 0.36 ± 0.25 at elbow extension, 0.68 ± 0.34, 0.38 ± 0.27, 0.77 ± 0.39, 0.32 ± 0.20, 0.48 ± 0.22, 0.32 ± 0.12 (mm) at elbow flexion, respectively. Compared with control group, they were significantly thickened except for proximal end at elbow flexion. MEO ligament thickness at epicondyle end and olecranon end was significantly larger than midpoint in two groups. No significant difference was found in length and width of MEO ligament among different comparisons. Ulnar nerve thickness at 5 mm proximal to MEO ligament (P5 mm, 3.25 ± 0.66 mm) was significantly increased than midpoint of MEO ligament (Mid), distal end of MEO ligament (D0 mm), 5 mm (D5 mm), 10 mm (D10 mm) distal to MEO ligament at extension in CuTS group. Compared with control group, ulnar nerve thickness at P5 mm in CuTS group was significantly increased at extension position, at D5 mm and D10 mm was significantly decreased at flexion position. CSA of ulnar nerve at extension position (14.44 ± 4.65 mm2) was significantly larger than flexion position (11.83 ± 3.66 mm2) in CuTS group, and CuTS group was significantly larger than control group at two positions.ConclusionsMEO ligament in CuTS patients was thickened, which compressed ulnar nerve and caused its proximal end swelling. Ultrasonic image of MEO ligament thickness was a significant indicator for CuTS and can guide surgeons in selecting the appropriate treatment.

Cubital tunnel syndrome due to old lateral humeral condyle fractures with gouty stone: A case report

IntroductionCubital tunnel syndrome is a peripheral nerve compression disease, which is caused by the reduction of cubital tunnel space and the compression of ulnar nerve in the cubital tunnel. The main clinical symptoms were numbness and hypoesthesia in the distribution area of ulnar nerve.Case presentationWe report a case of complex cubital tunnel syndrome caused by an old lateral humeral condyle fracture combined with gouty stone compression. Before surgery, the patient's left hypothenar, ring finger and little finger were numb, decreased grip strength, positive paper clamp test. And finger numbness and finger weakness were significantly improved after ulnar nerve release combined with Gout stone resection.Clinical DiscussionIn this case report, the elbow joint deformity caused by old lateral humeral condyle fracture was not treated surgically. Only ulnar nerve release combined with Gout stone resection was performed, and the patient's symptoms were significantly relieved.ConclusionIn this case report, for the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome caused by multiple causes, we only need to find out the main causes of clinical symptoms and targeted treatment, which can not only reduce surgical trauma, but also achieve good treatment results. Its treatment method and treatment result, hoping to provide reference experience forthe diagnosis and treatment of similar diseases.

Intraneural or extraneural ganglion cysts as a cause of cubital tunnel syndrome: A retrospective observational study.

PurposeCubital tunnel syndrome caused by ganglion cysts has rarely been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical treatment outcomes of a patient diagnosed with cubital tunnel syndrome caused by intraneural or extraneural cysts and to summarize our experience.MethodIn total, 34 patients were evaluated retrospectively from January 2011 to January 2020 with a follow-up of more than 24 months. Preoperative data, such as demographic data, clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, and laboratory tests, were all recorded and pre-operative and post-operative data were compared. The function was evaluated by the modified Bishop scoring system and the McGowan grade at the last follow-up.ResultsImprovement of interosseous muscle strength, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), 2-point discrimination (2-PD), electromyogram (EMG) result, Wartenberg sign, claw hand, and weakness could be clearly observed in all patients. Extraneural cysts were completely removed and the pedicles of the cysts were ligated. Intraneural cysts were incised and drained, and part of their cyst walls were removed using a microsurgical technique. All patients underwent anterior subcutaneous transposition (AST). At the last follow-up, McGowan's (0-IIa) grade increased from seven patients (20.6%) preoperatively to 27 patients (79.4%); the excellent and good rate according to the modified Bishop scoring system was 82.4% (28 patients), and all patients had no symptoms of recurrence after surgery.ConclusionThe treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome caused by intraneural or extraneural cysts achieved good long-term results through extraneural cyst resection or intraneural cyst incision and drainage combined with subcutaneous transposition. Early diagnosis and surgical treatment are essential for the patient's postoperative recovery.

Some Misconceptions in the Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, Radial Tunnel Syndrome, and Median Nerve Compression in the Forearm.

This article discusses ulnar, median, and radial nerve compression in the proximal forearm and elbow and some possible common misconceptions. In particular, the ligament of Struthers extremely rarely causes ulnar neuropathy. Lacertus syndrome and flexor superficialis-pronator syndrome can be diagnosed separately. Surgical release can be through a small incision. Acronyms for compression to radial nerve in proximal forearm can be simplified to radial tunnel syndrome, which includes a mild type (classical radial tunnel syndrome) and a severe type (posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) compression).

The Effects of Physiotherapy in the Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review.

Background: To date, various forms of physiotherapy are used in the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). The effectiveness of physiotherapy for CuTS is inconclusive. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate the effects of physiotherapy in the conservative treatment of CuTS. Methods: The six databases were searched from December 2020 to March 2022. The inclusion criteria were randomised controlled trials, case series, and case reports that evaluate the effects of physiotherapy in the treatment of adult participants with diagnosis CuTS. A total of 11 studies met the eligibility criteria, capturing a total of 187 participants. Results: In three types of papers, pain, muscle strength, and limitation of upper limb function were the most frequently assessed characteristics. Physiotherapy was most often based on manual therapy, neurodynamic techniques, and electrical modalities. One clinical trial rated the risk of bias “high” and the other two “some concerns”. In case-series designs, five studies rated the risk of bias as “serious” and three as “moderate”. Most of the studies showed a significant improvement in the clinical condition, also in the follow-up study. Only one clinical trial showed no therapeutic effect. Conclusion: There is no possibility of recommending the best method of physiotherapy in clinical practice for people with CuTS based on the results of this systematic review. More high-quality studies are required.

Risk factors as predictor variables for Quality of Life and patient satisfaction posterior to the surgical treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Risk factors as predictor variables for Quality of Life and patient satisfaction posterior to the surgical treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Evaluation of PROMIS Outcomes for Surgical Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome With and Without Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Assessment of outcomes for cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) surgeries has been difficult due to heterogeneity in outcome reporting. Our objective was to evaluate the outcomes for 2 cohorts treated surgically for isolated CuTS and for combined CuTS and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) using Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). There were 29 patients in the isolated CuTS cohort and 30 patients in the combined CuTS and CTS cohort. PROMIS Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), Depression, and Upper Extremity (UE) were completed preoperatively and 1-week, 6-weeks, and 3-months postoperatively. Responsiveness was evaluated by standardized response means (SRM). Significant improvements from the 1-week to 6-week postoperative period are shown in the isolated CuTS cohort for PROMIS PF (P = .002), PI (P = .0002), and UE (P = .02), but scores plateau after 6-weeks postoperatively. A similar pattern for the same time points was seen for the combined CuTS and CTS group for PROMIS PF (P = .001), PI (P = .02), and UE (P = .04), with a plateau of scores beyond 6 weeks postoperatively. PROMIS UE was more responsive (SRM range: 0.11-1.03) than the PF (SRM range: 0.02-0.52) and PI (SRM range: 0.11-0.40), which were both mildly responsive for both cohorts. PROMIS lacks the sensitivity to show improvement beyond 6-weeks postoperatively for both isolated CuTS and combined CuTS and CTS. Patients with combined nerve compressions follow similar trajectories in the postoperative period as those with isolated CuTS. Level IV.

Decision Making via 3D Computed Tomography in the Surgical Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Surgical Technique and Results.

To investigate the importance of elbow 3D computed tomography in surgical planning when deciding on the treatment surgical treatment method of the ulnar nerve entrapment in the cubital tunnel. In this study, 21 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome in our clinic were included and retrospectively analyzed. All of the patients were diagnosed with EMG, and surgical planning was performed based on the anatomy of the cubital tunnel diagnosed via 3D computed tomography. In addition to the classical simple decompression of the ulnar nerve, 15 patients underwent cubital tunnel reconstruction with high-speed drill, whereas 6 patients underwent ulnar nerve anterior subcutaneous transposition. The results were evaluated based on the modified Wilson & Krout criteria. Fourteen of the patients were female and seven were male. The average age was 42.2 years. Fifteen patients underwent simple decompression of the ulnar nerve and cubital tunnel reconstruction. Transposition was performed in six patients. The patients were followed up for an average of 107.5 months (3-144). Based on the Wilson & Krout criteria, excellent results were obtained in 14 patients (66.7%), good results in 6 (28.6%), and poor results in 1 (4.8%). The evaluation of the cubital tunnel via 3D computed tomography before the operation is effective in determining the optimal surgical technique and obtaining more successful clinical results. The cubital tunnel reconstruction in addition to simple decompression increases surgical success and minimizes complications and the possibility of relapse due to the fact that the nerve remains in its natural position.

针刺联合肘管扩大成形术治疗肘管综合征的应用

针刺联合肘管扩大成形术治疗肘管综合征的应用

Reporting Outcomes and Outcome Measures in Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: A Systematic Review

Comparison between studies assessing outcomes after surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) has proven to be difficult owing to variations in outcome reporting. This study aimed to identify outcomes and outcome measures used to evaluate postoperative results for CuTS. We performed computerized database searches of MEDLINE and EMBASE. Studies with 20 or more patients aged 18 and older who were undergoing medial epicondylectomy, endoscopic decompression, open simple decompression, or decompression with subcutaneous, submuscular, or intramuscular transposition for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow were included. Outcomes and outcome measures were extracted and tabulated. Of the 101 studies included, 45 unique outcomes and 31 postoperative outcome measures were identified. These included 7 condition-specific, clinician-reported instruments; 4 condition-specific, clinician-reported instruments; 8 patient-reported, generic instruments; 11 clinician-generated instruments; and one utility measure. Outcome measures were divided into 6 unique domains. Overall, 60% of studies used condition-specific outcome measures. The frequency of any condition-specific outcome measure ranged from 1% to 37% of included studies. There is marked heterogeneity in outcomes and outcome measures used to assess CuTS. A standardized core outcome set is needed to compare results of various techniques of cubital tunnel decompression. This study builds on the existing literature to support the notion that there is marked heterogeneity in outcomes and outcome measures used to assess CuTS. The authors believe that a future standardized set of core outcomes is needed to limit heterogeneity among studies assessing postoperative outcomes in CuTS to compare these interventions more easily and pool results in the form of systematic reviews and meta-analyses.

The impact of pre-existing ulnar nerve instability on the surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome: a systematic review

The decision to perform nerve transposition (NT) or in situ decompression (SD) during surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome is often based on nerve subluxation through elbow motion. This review assesses what impact nerve instability has on study design and reported outcomes. A search was performed with Boolean operators: "ulnar nerve" OR "cubital tunnel" AND "decompression" OR "transposition" on PubMed, Clinical Key, and CINAHL to identify primary studies comparing NT and SD that report pre-existing nerve instability. Primary outcome was the effect of instability on study design. Secondary outcomes were nerve instability, patient-reported scores, and complications. Five studies met criteria after screening 134 articles. In 3 studies, nerve instability dictated treatment. Prospective randomization was maintained in 1 study. Included cases totaled 464 SD and 304 NT. The complication rate was 8.6% overall, 4.3% for SD and 21.1% for NT. Bishop scores were 56.9% excellent and 37.3% good for stable nerves and 62.0% excellent and 29.3% good for unstable nerves. Very few studies report ulnar nerve instability, and study design is biased by ulnar nerve subluxation. Outcomes showed similar symptomatic improvement for both decompressed and transposed groups with higher complication rates for the transposed group.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome: Current Concepts.

Compressive neuropathy of the ulnar nerve across the elbow is a common diagnosis encountered frequently within a hand and upper extremity clinical practice. Appropriate and timely evaluation, diagnosis, objective testing, and evidence-based decisions regarding treatment options are paramount in the optimal care of the patient with this pathology. An understanding of current literature is critical in determining and understanding best practices. A thorough review of the recent literature regarding physical examination, diagnostic testing, and nonoperative versus operative results was performed. Regarding physical examination, the glenohumeral internal rotation test and scratch collapse test are more effective and sensitive than traditional maneuvers such as Tinel's testing and the elbow flexion test. Electrodiagnostic testing, magnetic resonance imaging, and ultrasound evaluation have all been shown to be effective in diagnosing cubital tunnel syndrome. However, no single test has proven itself to be superior. Nonoperative treatment can be successful for mild cases of cubital tunnel syndrome. Surgical release techniques comparing open with endoscopic release are equivocal, and in situ release versus transposition techniques show that transposition should not be performed routinely. The diagnosis and treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome do not have a well-defined algorithm based on current literature. The treating physician must therefore utilize the available information to determine a diagnostic and treatment plan individualized to the patient. More rigorous scientific studies are needed to determine the most effective surgical approaches for cubital tunnel syndrome.

Variation in the origin of the first motor branch of the ulnar nerve to the flexor carpi ulnaris muscle

Introduction/PurposeSurgical decompression of the ulnar nerve in the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome is performed in close proximity to the first motor branch of the ulnar nerve to flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU). Understanding the variability of this branch is important for improving surgical interventions. The purpose of this study was to determine the location and anatomical variation of the first motor branch to flexor carpi ulnaris.MethodsEmbalmed cadavers were dissected to expose the ulnar nerve as it courses past the medial epicondyle of the humerus. Digital calipers were used to measure the distance between the point of origin of the first motor branch of the ulnar nerve to FCU and the most prominent aspect of the medial epicondyle. The length of the ulna was also measured and correlated with data from ulnar nerve measurements. Statistical significance was defined as a p‐value < 0.05.OutcomesData was obtained from 113 cadaveric elbows. The location of the branch point was most consistently found (88.5% of specimens) distal to the medial epicondyle (average 19.42 mm, standard deviation 4.39, 95% confidence interval 18.54 – 20.29). In 11.5% of elbows, however, the branch point occurred proximal to the medial epicondyle (average 16.02 mm, standard deviation 4.53, 95% confidence interval 13.28 – 18.76 mm). The average distance was 18.42 mm distal to the medial epicondyle in females and 20.45 mm in males, with a statistically significant difference between genders (p‐value = 0.02). The correlation between the branch point of the first motor branch of the ulnar nerve to FCU and ulna body size was also explored.ConclusionThis study has demonstrated that the first motor branch of the ulnar nerve is most consistently located 18.54 to 20.29 mm distal to the medial epicondyle. Males had a significantly greater distance from the origin of the first motor branch of the ulnar nerve to FCU from the medial epicondyle compared to females. No statistically significant correlation was found related to laterality. Additionally, the prevalence of the anatomical variant in which branching of the first motor nerve from the ulnar nerve occurs proximal to the medial epicondyle was estimated. Prior to this study, the prevalence of this variant had not been reported.Support or Funding InformationThe authors would like to thank Midwestern University for the use of the specimens in this study.

Cubital tunnel syndrome: a surgical modification to in situ decompression to improve results

BackgroundThe gold standard for surgical treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome is in situ decompression. However, this procedure does not come without complications. Subluxation of the ulnar nerve and ulnar nerve neuritis from adhesion formation remain 2 potential complications after this procedure. It has been shown in the literature that young, active, male patients are most likely to have these complications postoperatively. We have developed a modification to in situ decompression by developing a fascial turnover flap and using a porcine submucosa extracellular matrix (Axogen) to help reduce both ulnar nerve subluxation and adhesion formation postoperatively.MethodsThirteen patients underwent cubital tunnel surgery by the highlighted technique to prevent postoperative ulnar nerve subluxation and adhesion formation. Patient outcomes including elbow range of motion, functional status, paresthesia, and grip strength were recorded.ResultsOf the 13 patients, 10 had excellent results, 1 had a good result, and 2 required revision with anterior transposition of the nerve. The mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score of the 11 patients not needing revision was 92.7.ConclusionThe described surgical technique provides surgeons with the ability to directly decompress the ulnar nerve while decreasing postoperative complications such as instability and adhesion formation.

Management of cubital tunnel syndrome by anterior trans-muscular transposition of the ulnar nerve

BackgroundVarious surgical options are used for the treatment of ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow. In this study, anterior trans-muscular transposition of the ulnar nerve was used for the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome.ObjectivesTo evaluate the surgical results of anterior trans-muscular transposition technique for the treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome with particular emphasis on clinical outcome.MethodsForty patients with cubital tunnel syndrome were operated using anterior trans-muscular transposition technique. Patients were classified into post-operative clinical outcome grades according to the Wilson & Krout criteria, and they were followed up by visual analog scale (VAS), the Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, electrophysiological study, and post-operative clinical evaluation.ResultsForty patients with cubital tunnel syndrome who underwent anterior trans-muscular transposition of the ulnar nerve show a significant clinical improvement at 24 months post-surgery regarding visual analog scale (VAS), the Disability of Arm Shoulder and Hand (DASH) questionnaire, electrophysiological study, and the Wilson & Krout grading as 87.5% of the patients recorded excellent and good outcome.ConclusionAnterior transmuscular transposition of the ulnar nerve is a safe and effective treatment for ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow.

Conservative treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome: A systematic review.

Cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) is one of the most common compression neuropathies of the upper extremity. Conservative management of cubital tunnel syndrome is often considered first line therapy for mild or moderate symptoms; however, there is little evidence-based literature to guide physicians in this regard. As such, the objective of this study is to complete a comprehensive literature search of the conservative therapies available for treatment of CuTS. Additionally, we hope to assess the evidence for each therapy so that we can make evidence- based recommendations regarding the type and duration of optimal treatment. The databases MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CINAHL were search using a sensitive search strategy. Eligibility for studies included any studies or conference abstracts in which patients were treated conservatively for primary CuTS. Any form of non-operative treatment was acceptable. A data extraction form was developed to collect all information and outcomes of interest, including study design, level of evidence, number of patients, treatment modalities, follow- up time, patient reported outcomes, and electrophysiological markers. Qualitative and quantitative analysis was then completed based on the data extraction form. Given the heterogeneity of the included studies, results were summarized as best evidence available.Our sensitive literature search produced 6484 studies. Initial screening based on title and abstract resulted in the selection of 40 studies that underwent full text review. From these 19 studies were included for analysis in our systematic review. There were 3 level I studies, 4 level II studies, 3 level III studies, and 9 level IV studies. In total this included 844 patients. The most commonly reported outcomes included subjective patient reported outcomes and nerve conduction studies. The most common treatment modalities, from most to least common, included education and activity modification, splinting, steroid/lidocaine injection, nerve mobilization/gliding, pulsed ultrasound, laser therapy, non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs, and physiotherapy. The most common duration of therapy was 3 months with a median follow-up time of 3 months. There was moderate strength evidence to recommend the use of education/activity modification or splinting in mild or moderate CuTS.There is a paucity of literature and highquality studies regarding the conservative management of CuTS. Regardless, there appears to be a role for non-operative management in CuTS, although further studies are needed to delineate this role further. In the cases of mild or moderate CuTS it is reasonable to trial education/activity modification or splinting as both appear to be equally effective.