Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common nerve compression syndrome next to carpal tunnel. This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve (also known as the “funny bone”) experiences pressure or stretching. This nerve passes through the cubital tunnel inside of your elbow and when it is affected it can cause numbness or tingling in the ring and small fingers, pain in the forearm, and weakness in the hand.
It is common to begin early treatment with resting the elbow, using an elbow pad, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), and injections. If the symptoms persist and surgery is recommended there are a few options. In most cases traditional surgical treatment for cubital tunnel syndrome involves an open approach. This requires a very large incision and has typically included cutting the nerve tunnel through a large opening or even moving the nerve to the front of the elbow. At the Fitzmaurice Institute, we have the EndoTech® endoscopic cubital tunnel release. This minimally-invasive approach allows the surgeon to divide the thick tissue over the nerve, making more room by utilizing a very small incision. This newer technique also allows the patient an earlier return to activities, with minimal to no pain. In fact, most patients can move their elbow immediately, and often return to work in as little as 1 week.
Studies have shown that this remarkable visualization significantly decreases surgical risks, with zero complications to date in over 4000 procedures performed. EndoTech® results in the least amount of pain and fastest recovery compared to other surgical techniques. This allows for a much higher success rate and a greater overall patient outcome.