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Surgical decompression without transposition for ulnar neuropathy: factors determining outcome
P D LeRoux1, T D Ensign, K J Burchiel
1Department of Neurosurgery, Seattle Veterans Administration Medical Center, Washington.
Neurosurgery
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Simple surgical decompression effectively treats ulnar neuropathy, especially when symptoms are recent. This procedure offers significant symptomatic improvement for most patients with nerve compression in the epicondylar groove.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Ulnar neuropathy is a common condition affecting the elbow.
- Surgical intervention is often considered for persistent symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of simple surgical decompression for ulnar neuropathy.
- To identify factors influencing surgical outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Fifty-one surgical decompressions without nerve transposition were performed.
- Patients underwent surgery under local anesthesia.
- Follow-up ranged from 5 to 32 months.
Main Results:
- Eighty percent of patients experienced symptomatic improvement after surgery.
- Shorter symptom duration (<1 year) correlated with better outcomes.
- Nerve conduction velocity changes did not significantly predict surgical success.
Conclusions:
- Simple decompression is an effective treatment for ulnar neuropathy caused by compression in the epicondylar groove.
- Early surgical intervention appears to yield better results.
- The procedure is well-tolerated and provides rapid symptomatic relief.