Ulnar Decompression Surgery & Ulnar Nerve Surgery in London

1. Ulnar Nerve & Ulnar Decompression Surgery Expert Orthopaedic Solutions for Nerve Compression Specialized surgical interventions to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve, restore function, and eliminate discomfort in patients experiencing compression-related symptoms.

2. Understanding the Ulnar Nerve The ulnar nerve is a major peripheral nerve that: Runs from the neck through the arm to the hand Controls most hand muscles for fine motor skills Provides sensation to the ring and little fingers Is vulnerable to compression at several points along its path When compressed, patients experience pain, tingling, weakness, and potential long-term damage if left untreated.

3. Common Causes of Ulnar Nerve Compression Pressure & Positioning Trauma & Injury Prolonged leaning on elbows, repetitive flexion and extension movements, or habitually resting on hard surfaces Elbow fractures, dislocations, direct blows to the "funny bone," or post-traumatic scarring around the nerve Medical Conditions Occupational Factors Arthritis, bone spurs, cysts, tumors, or systemic conditions like diabetes that increase vulnerability to nerve compression Jobs requiring prolonged elbow flexion, vibrating tools, or repetitive wrist movements (musicians, desk workers, mechanics)

4. Recognizing Symptoms Early Warning Signs Advanced Symptoms Intermittent numbness or "pins and needles" in ring and little fingers Persistent numbness or reduced sensation Weakened grip strength and difficulty pinching Discomfort or tenderness around the inner elbow Visible muscle wasting in the hand (intrinsic muscle atrophy) Sensations that worsen when the elbow is bent for prolonged periods Inability to spread fingers apart or constant pain Mild hand clumsiness, especially with fine motor tasks Claw-like deformity of ring and little fingers

5. What is Ulnar Decompression Surgery? Definition Goals Indications A surgical procedure specifically designed to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve, most commonly performed at the elbow where the nerve passes through the cubital tunnel. To alleviate compression, restore normal nerve function, prevent progressive nerve damage, and eliminate or reduce pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected hand. Recommended when conservative treatments fail (splinting, activity modification, anti-inflammatories), symptoms persist for >6 weeks, or muscle atrophy begins to develop.

6. Types of Ulnar Nerve Surgery Medial Epicondylectomy Ulnar Nerve Transposition The bony prominence (medial epicondyle) that contributes to nerve compression is partially removed to create more space. Simple Decompression The nerve is moved from behind the medial epicondyle to a new position in front of it, usually within muscle tissue where it's better protected. The compressive tissues around the nerve are released without changing the nerve's position. The roof of the cubital tunnel is cut to increase space around the nerve. Ideal for: Patients with prominent bone spurs or limited soft tissue options. Ideal for: Cases with nerve instability or recurrent symptoms after simple decompression. Ideal for: Mild to moderate cases with minimal nerve instability.

7. Surgical Procedure Overview Procedure Steps What to Expect 1. Small incision (3-4 inches) near inner elbow Typically outpatient procedure (go home same day) 2. Careful identification and protection of the ulnar nerve Takes 45-90 minutes depending on technique 3. Release of compressive tissue (Osborne's ligament) Performed under regional or general anesthesia 4. Assessment of nerve stability after decompression Arm placed in soft dressing and possible splint 5. Repositioning of nerve if necessary (transposition) Pain management with oral medications 6. Wound closure with absorbable sutures

8. Benefits and Outcomes 85% 90% 75% 95% Symptom Improvement Patient Satisfaction Grip Strength Recovery Nerve Protection Most patients experience significant reduction in numbness, tingling and pain within 6 weeks of surgery High satisfaction rates when performed by experienced orthopaedic surgeons for appropriate indications Substantial improvement in hand strength and dexterity for patients with pre- operative weakness Prevention of permanent nerve damage when intervention occurs before significant muscle atrophy Results vary based on severity of compression, duration of symptoms before surgery, patient age, and comorbidities like diabetes that affect nerve healing.

9. Recovery Timeline and Expectations 1 Days 1-7: Initial Recovery Rest, elevation, pain management with prescribed medications. Limited use of the affected arm with dressing in place. Gentle finger movements encouraged. 2 Weeks 2-4: Early Rehabilitation Suture removal, gradual increase in elbow movement, light activities permitted. Begin basic strengthening exercises under guidance of a physical therapist. 3 Weeks 6-12: Progressive Strengthening Structured physical therapy for flexibility and strength. Most patients return to non-strenuous work and daily activities. Driving typically resumed. 4 3-6 Months: Full Recovery Return to sports and heavy manual activities. Nerve regeneration continues, with ongoing improvement in sensation and strength. Final results assessment.

10. Why Choose Our Specialist Care Expert Surgical Team Comprehensive Approach Advanced Techniques Board-certified orthopaedic surgeons with specialized fellowship training in peripheral nerve surgery and microsurgical techniques Detailed diagnostic workup with nerve conduction studies, personalized treatment plans, and integrated rehabilitation services Minimally invasive options when appropriate, endoscopic approaches, and state-of-the-art intraoperative nerve monitoring Schedule your consultation today: +44 7932 233168