Clinical outcomes analysis of small incision cubital tunnel release

Objective To discuss the clinical application of small incision release for treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome.Methods Twelve cases of cubital tunnel syndrome treated from December 2010 to November 2011 were involved.The preoperative function of the ulnar nerve was evaluated by electromyography.Partial resection of the medial epicondyle and decompression of the ulnar nerve was carried out through a small incision.Postoperative immobilization with a plaster cast lasted for 2 days to protect elbow from excessive movement.Results All of 12 cases were follow-up for 4 months to one year.Markedly improved sensation and extrinsic muscle strength were noted.There was no further atrophy of the intrinsic hand muscles.Claw hand deformities of 6 cases were corrected to some extent.According to the criteria for functional assessment of the upper extremity issued by the Chinese Hand Surgery Society,the results were graded as excellent in 6 cases,good in 4 cases,and fair in 2 cases.The overall rate of excellent and good was 83.3 ％.Conclusion When properly indicated,cubital tunnel syndrome can be treated with small-incision partial resection of the medial epicondyle. Key words: Cubital tunnel syndrome; Ulnar nerve; Claw hand; Small incision