title: Simple decompression of the ulnar nerve: an alternative to anterior transposition.
abstract: Anterior transposition and/or medial epicondylectomy are often considered procedures of choice for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Much experience suggests simple decompression to be a comparably effective alternative which involves less trauma, morbidity, and rehabilitation time. The post-operative clinical and electrophysiological results of 52 cases of simple decompression (41 patients) are summarized. Excellent or good clinical results were found in 75% of the nerves. Mean ulnar motor conduction velocities were significantly improved post-operatively, although nerve conduction parameters did not consistently correlate with clinical outcome. The average return-to-work time was 5.1 weeks. The advantages of simple decompression make it the procedure of choice for most cases of ulnar neuropathy.
authors.affiliation: Portland Hand Surgery and Rehabilitation Centre, Oregon.
authors.forename: P A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Nathan
authors.forename: L D
authors.initials: LD
authors.lastname: Myers
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Keniston
authors.forename: K D
authors.initials: KD
authors.lastname: Meadows
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D004550:Elbow; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009408:Nerve Compression Syndromes / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*; D009431:Neural Conduction / Q000502:physiology; D012044:Regression Analysis; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014459:Ulnar Nerve / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000601:surgery*