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Localization of ulnar neuropathy with conduction block across the elbow
D N Herrmann1, D C Preston, K A McIntosh
1Department of Neurology, University of Rochester, SMH 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 673, Rochester, New York 14642, USA. david_herrmann@urmc.rochester.edu
Muscle & Nerve
|April 24, 2001
Summary
Short segment incremental stimulation revealed that ulnar neuropathy across the elbow (UNE) often involves conduction block proximal to the medial epicondyle. This technique effectively identifies blocks above the elbow in ulnar nerve compression cases.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurophysiology
Background:
- Ulnar neuropathy across the elbow (UNE) is a common condition.
- The exact localization of conduction block in UNE is not always clear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the localization of conduction block in patients with UNE using short segment incremental stimulation.
- To assess the utility of short segment incremental studies in identifying conduction block above the elbow.
Main Methods:
- Short segment incremental stimulation was performed on 13 consecutive patients diagnosed with UNE.
- Conduction block was analyzed based on its location relative to the medial epicondyle.
Main Results:
- Conduction block was identified proximal to the medial epicondyle in 62% of patients.
- A significant portion of blocks (23%) occurred at the epicondyle, and 15% were distal.
- The ulnar nerve appears susceptible to compression proximal to the elbow.
Conclusions:
- Short segment incremental stimulation is a valuable tool for localizing conduction block in UNE.
- The findings suggest that the ulnar nerve is more vulnerable to external compression above the elbow than previously thought.