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Tardy ulnar nerve palsy caused by cubitus varus deformity
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|October 1, 1986
Summary
Cubitus varus deformity can lead to tardy ulnar nerve palsy. This occurs when the medial head of the triceps muscle shifts, compressing the ulnar nerve.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Neurology
- Anatomy
Background:
- Cubitus varus deformity is a condition affecting elbow alignment.
- Tardy ulnar nerve palsy can be a complication of cubitus varus.
- Understanding the mechanism is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the underlying causes of tardy ulnar nerve palsy in patients with cubitus varus deformity.
- To identify specific anatomical and biomechanical factors contributing to nerve compression.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of clinical features and X-rays from 34 patients with cubitus varus.
- Comparison between patients with and without tardy ulnar nerve palsy.
- Computed tomography (CT) scans and operative findings were utilized.
Main Results:
- Patients with tardy ulnar nerve palsy were older at initial presentation.
- CT revealed medial displacement of the olecranon within the olecranon fossa.
- Operative findings indicated medial shift of the triceps brachii medial head, covering the ulnar nerve.
Conclusions:
- Cubitus varus deformity predisposes the ulnar nerve to compression.
- The medial movement of the triceps brachii medial head is a key factor in ulnar nerve palsy development.
- This compression mechanism explains the occurrence of tardy ulnar nerve palsy in cubitus varus.