Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Symptoms
Cubital
tunnel syndrome is caused by compression of the ulnar nerve, one of the main nerves that goes to the hand, at the elbow.
The symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome are numbness and tingling in the fingers (mainly the little and ring fingers), weak grip
and pain in the hand and arm. Symptoms may be worse when the elbow is bent, for example while on the phone, and also at night.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of cubital tunnel syndrome is made from the history and examination, and confirmed by an electrical test called a nerve conduction test. Neck problems can cause similar symptoms to cubital tunnel syndrome when the nerves to the hand are compressed where they pass between the vertebrae of the neck.
Treatment
Mild
cases of cubital tunnel syndrome, particularly when the symptoms occur mostly at night, may settle with wearing an elbow
splint at night for a few weeks. My hand therapist can make a light-weight custom made splint. Most patients with cubital tunnel
syndrome will require surgical treatment. Surgical treatment involves 'decompression' of the ulnar nerve. There are several
variations of how this is done as far as the surgical technique is concerned. The operation is done under general anaesthetic as
day surgery. An incision about 8cm long is made behind the elbow. As a plastic surgeon I am very meticulous with my stitching and
I will ensure that the scar is as good as it can possibly be. A bulky soft dressing is applied to limit how much the elbow bends
for the first week after surgery, and following this, the arm can be used for light activities. Hand therapy is important to ensure
the shortest recovery time after surgery.