[Tardy ulnar palsy treated by anterior subcutaneous transposition]

Twenty cases of tardy ulnar palsy were treated by anterior subcutaneous transposition in the past 6 years at the Veterans General Hospital-Taichung. These cases were followed up for at least 9 months after operation. Mean duration of follow up was 39.5 months. Age distribution was from 40y/o to 72y/o, mean age was 54.5y/o. Duration of symptoms was from 2 months to 72 months, mean was 20.3 months. Eight cases were attributed to the idiopathic type. 16 cases (80%) improved after operation. Four factors were analyzed to evaluate their status as a prognostic guide: age, duration of syndrome, severity before operation and precipitating factors. Only severity before operation correlated with prognosis, but good recovery can be achieved in severe cases. Anterior subcutaneous transposition is a good method for treating tardy ulnar palsy.