Objective To discuss the concept of ulnar tunnel at thewrist, the types, causes, traits of compression, diagnosis, and clinical significance of ulnar tunnel syndrome(UTS). Methods Thirty-nine cases diagnosed as having UTS from 1986 were retrospectively reviewed combined with previous relevant literature. Results Ulnar tunnel included Guyon’s canal, pisohamate tunnel and hypothenar segment. There were 8 types andmany causes of UTS. Some patients had compression in more than one zones and might be associated with carpal tunnel syndrome or cubital tunnel syndrome. UTS could be diagnosed through clinical manifestations and electrophysiological examination. Conclusion Defining the concept of ulnar tunnel and the knowledge of the complexity and rarity of UTS can effectively guide diagnosis and treatment.
ObjectiveTo review the current progress of treatment of cubital tunnel syndrome (CTS). MethodsRecent relevant literature on the treatment of CTS was extensively reviewed and summarized. ResultsCTS is one of the most common peripheral nerve compression diseases.The clinical presentations of CTS consist of numbness and tingling in the ring and small fingers of the hand,pain in the elbow and sensory change following long-time elbow bending.Severe symptoms such as weakness or atrophy of intrinsic muscles of the hand and claw hand deformity may occur.The etiology of CTS is ulnar nerve compression caused by morphological abnormalities and nerve paralysis after elbow trauma.CTS can be treated by nonsurgical methods and surgery.Surgical options include in situ decompression,ulnar nerve transposition,medial epicondylectomy,and endoscopic release. ConclusionThere are multiple options to treat CTS,but the indication and effectiveness of each treatment are still controversial.Further studies are required to form a generally accepted treatment system.