Cubital Tunnel Syndrome is a condition characterised by compression of the ulnar nerve in an area of the inside of the elbow called the cubital tunnel.
The ulnar nerve travels down the back of the elbow behind the bony bump called the medial epicondyle, and through a passageway called the cubital tunnel. The cubital tunnel is a narrow passageway on the inside of the elbow formed by bone, muscle, and ligaments with the ulnar nerve passing through its centre. The roof of the cubital tunnel is covered with a soft tissue called fascia.
When the elbow is bent, the ulnar nerve can stretch and catch on the bony bump. When the ulnar nerve is compressed or entrapped, the nerve can be pinched and become inflamed leading to a variety of symptoms, called Cubital Tunnel Syndrome.
Signs and Symptoms
In general, signs and symptoms of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome arise gradually, progressing to the point where the patient seeks medical attention. Left untreated, Cubital Tunnel Syndrome can lead to permanent nerve damage in the hand. Commonly reported symptoms associated with Cubital Tunnel Syndrome include:
- Intermittent numbness, tingling, and pain to the little finger, ring finger, and the inside of the hand. These symptoms occur more frequently at night, and with elbow bending or prolonged resting on the elbow.
- Aching pain to the inside of the elbow
- Weakness in hand with diminished grip strength
- Diminished sensation and fine motor control in the hand causing the person to drop objects or have difficulty in handling small objects.
- Muscle wasting in the hand and permanent nerve damage, if left untreated.
Causes
The common causes responsible for cubital tunnel syndrome, include:
- Trauma
- Repetitive motion
- Frequent pressure on the elbow for extended periods due to sitting posture
- Local compression from bone spurs, ganglion cysts, or tumours in the cubital tunnel leading to pressure and irritation of the ulnar nerve.
Diagnosis
Dr Bala will perform the following:
- Medical History
- Physical Examination
Dr Bala may order X-rays, Ultrasound, MRI and electro diagnostic tests such as electromyography and nerve conduction studies. These tests can assist Dr Bala in determining how well the nerve is functioning and locate areas of muscle wasting and nerve compression.
Treatment
Dr Bala will recommend conservative treatment options initially to treat the symptoms unless muscle wasting or nerve damage is present.
Conservative treatment options may include:
- Avoid frequent bending of the elbow.
- Avoid pressure to the elbow by not leaning on it. Elbow pads may be worn to decrease pressure when working at a desk.
- Wear a brace or splint at night while sleeping to keep the elbow in a straight position. You can also wrap the arm loosely with a towel and apply tape to hold in place.
- Avoid activities that tend to bring on the symptoms.
- Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs may be recommended to reduce swelling.
- Referral to PT (Physiotherapy) for instruction in strengthening and stretching exercises may be recommended.
If conservative treatment options fail to resolve the condition or if muscle wasting or severe nerve compression is present, Dr Bala may recommend a surgical procedure to treat your condition. The goal of Cubital Tunnel surgery is to reduce the pressure on the ulnar nerve by providing more space for the nerve to move freely and to increase blood flow to promote healing of the ulnar nerve. There are different surgeries that can be performed to treat your condition, such as:
- Ulnar Nerve Transposition: This surgery involves creating a new tunnel in front of the medial epicondyle and transposing (moving) the ulnar nerve to the new tunnel.
Dr Bala prefers to move the nerve under a muscle bed to retain the blood supply of the nerve rather than under the skin. He will decide which option may be best for you depending on your specific circumstances. Although he is trained to do the procedure keyhole he prefers to do the procedure open to adequately visualize, release and protect the nerve.
Post-Operative Care
Dr Bala will advise you depending on the type of surgery performed. Common post-operative guidelines include:
- A bulky dressing is usually applied following surgery for 1 week.
- Elevating the arm above heart level and moving the fingers are important to prevent swelling.
- Ice packs can be applied to the surgical area to reduce swelling. Ice should be applied over a towel to the affected area for 20 minutes every hour. Keep the surgical incision clean and dry. Cover the area with plastic wrap when bathing or showering.
- Physiotherapy may be ordered a few weeks after surgery for strengthening and stretching exercises to maximise use of the hand and forearm
Risks and Complications
The majority of patients suffer no complications following Cubital Tunnel surgery. Surgery is usually effective at relieving night elbow pain. However, recovery of the finger numbness can take many weeks.
Other complications:
- Infection, Bruising and tenderness
- Nerve damage causing permanent numbness around the elbow or forearm can occur but is very uncommon. Pain at the site of scar may also occur.
- Elbow instability or Elbow flexion contracture
- Symptoms unresolved even after the surgery
Dr Bala takes special precautions including wearing magnifying loupes while performing this surgery to protect important structures near the elbow to prevent complications. In the event you may have a tattoo on the forearm Dr Bala is well versed in suturing tattoos back accurately with absorbable sutures.