Ulnar Nerve Pathology and Treatment Rationale

Abstract

Ulnar nerve entrapment is a common condition; in most cases the site of compression is around the elbow. This is commonly occurring from 8 cm proximal to the elbow, the arcade of Struthers, to the proximal part of the muscle belly of the flexor carpi ulnaris in the forearm. When conservative therapy fails, surgical decompression should be considered. While open surgery was the gold standard, endoscopic surgery has gained popularity recently and can be achieved with comparable outcomes. However, if the ulnar nerve is found to be unstable or the hostile bed is noted, anterior decompression of the nerve is indicated. In cases of persistent or recurrent symptoms, alternate diagnosis should be considered.