The ulnar nerve passes through a tight space behind the inner side of the elbow known as the cubital tunnel. When the nerve is compressed or irritated in this area, it causes numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers, weakness of grip, and difficulty with fine motor tasks. This condition is called cubital tunnel syndrome.
When conservative measures such as elbow padding, activity modification, and anti inflammatory medications fail to provide lasting relief, surgical transposition of the ulnar nerve offers a more definitive treatment.
How the Procedure Works
Dr. Waldron makes an incision along the inner side of the elbow and carefully frees the ulnar nerve from its groove behind the elbow. The nerve is then repositioned to a new location in front of the joint, where it is protected from further compression and stretching during elbow movement.
- Incision along the inner elbow
- Complete mobilization of the ulnar nerve
- Repositioning to a protected location in front of the elbow
- Soft tissue coverage to secure the nerve in its new position
What Recovery Looks Like
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis. A soft dressing and sometimes a splint are worn for one to two weeks. Light activity can resume within a few days, though heavy lifting and repetitive elbow bending should be avoided for about six weeks. Numbness and tingling improve gradually over weeks to months.