Ulnar Nerve Entrapment at the elbow (cubital tunnel syndrome)
The ulnar nerve innervates 13 intrinsic muscles in the hand and is vital for fine dexterity and optimal hand function. Cubital tunnel syndrome is caused by pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow and reduces blood supply to the nerve resulting in nerve ischemia and ultimately axonal degeneration and permanent neuropathic changes. One method of correcting this condition is by liberating the nerve from its present location thereby eliminating the pressure on the nerve and repositioning it into a well vascularized tissue bed. The sub muscular position is an ideal location since it is highly vascularized and also provides protection to the nerve.
The Ulnar Nerve is in its new location anterior to the medial epicondyle within the flexor pronator muscle mass.