Tardy ulnar nerve palsy caused by cubitus varus deformity

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Neurology
• Traumatology

Background:

• Tardy ulnar nerve palsy can result from cubitus varus deformity.
• Childhood humerus fractures are a common precursor to this deformity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between traumatic cubitus varus deformity and tardy ulnar nerve palsy.
• To evaluate surgical outcomes for patients with this condition.

Main Methods:

• Study included 15 patients with tardy ulnar nerve palsy and cubitus varus.
• Patients underwent clinical evaluation, X-rays, and surgical exploration of the ulnar nerve.
• Surgical procedures included fibrous band release and anterior subcutaneous transposition of the ulnar nerve, with corrective osteotomy in some cases.

Main Results:

• The mean interval between fracture and symptom onset was 15 years.
• The primary cause identified was compression by a fibrous band within the flexor carpi ulnaris.
• Most patients presented with McGowan's grade I palsy; surgical release and transposition yielded positive outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Traumatic cubitus varus deformity is a significant, often overlooked, cause of cubital tunnel syndrome.
• Early recognition and surgical management are crucial for treating ulnar nerve palsy secondary to cubitus varus.