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Updated: Apr 16, 2026

Screening of Axonal Degeneration in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Using Ultrasonography and Nerve Conduction Studies
Published on: January 11, 2019
Precise localization of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow
1Institute of Clinical Neurophysiology, Division of Neurology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Slovenia.
Short-segment nerve conduction studies (SSNCSs) and ultrasonography (US) precisely locate ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). These methods, particularly useful for retroepicondylar groove lesions, complement each other for accurate diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) diagnosis can be challenging.
- Precise localization is crucial for effective treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of short-segment nerve conduction studies (SSNCSs) and ultrasonography (US) for precise UNE localization.
- To differentiate between lesions in the retroepicondylar (RTC) groove and the humeroulnar aponeurotic arcade (HUA).
Main Methods:
- Prospective recruitment of patients with suspected UNE.
- Performance of neurologic, electrodiagnostic (EDx), and ultrasonographic (US) examinations by blinded examiners.
- Localization determined by SSNCSs criteria (conduction slowing/block) and US criteria (cross-sectional area changes).
Main Results:
- SSNCSs and US precisely localized UNE in 93% of affected arms.
- Retroepicondylar groove (RTC) lesions (76%) were predominantly demyelinating (63%).
- Humeroulnar aponeurotic arcade (HUA) lesions (17%) were mainly axonal (73%).
Conclusions:
- SSNCSs and US are highly effective and complementary tools for precise UNE localization.
- RTC lesions are more common and typically demyelinating, while HUA lesions are less common and typically axonal.
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