[Cubital tunnel syndrome : Diagnostics and therapy]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurology
• Surgical Procedures

Background:

• Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most prevalent upper extremity nerve compression.
• Ulnar nerve mechanical irritation can occur throughout the arm, not just at the elbow.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize current understanding and treatment strategies for cubital tunnel syndrome.
• To highlight the role of electrophysiological testing in diagnosis and treatment decisions.
• To differentiate primary surgical interventions from those for revision cases.

Main Methods:

• Review of clinical manifestations and diagnostic tools.
• Emphasis on electrophysiological testing for therapy guidance.
• Comparison of surgical techniques for primary and revision cubital tunnel syndrome.

Main Results:

• Clinical examination and electrophysiological testing are key for treatment decisions.
• Conservative treatment with elbow splinting is suitable for mild cases.
• Surgical decompression is indicated for persistent or advanced nerve irritation.

Conclusions:

• Open or endoscopically assisted in situ decompression is the recommended primary surgical approach.
• Anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve is reserved for revision surgeries.
• Effective management requires accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment, from conservative measures to surgical intervention.