[Epitrochleoplasty: a method for release and protection of the ulnar nerve at the elbow]

The authors have modified the technique of excision of the medial epicondyle used in the course of release of the ulnar nerve. After excision of the epicondyle, a flap is made from the posterior band of the ulnar collateral ligament passing between the epicondyle and the olecranon, prolonged by the fibro-periosteal tissue covering the medial epicondyle. This flap is interposed between the nerve and the joint. This technique has been used on 10 occasions and seems to be superior to transposition of the nerve to the front of the medial epicondyle or to isolated excision of the medial epicondyle.