Simple Decompression Versus Anterior Transposition for Management of Idiopathic Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Professor of Orthopedic Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, Zagazig University

2 Orthopedic Surgery Resident at Benha Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background: Cubital tunnel syndrome is considered a common compressive neuropathy of the upper limb having various surgical options available for its treatment. The debate remains if simple decompression or anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve could offer better outcomes. This work aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of simple decompression opposed to the anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve among patients who had idiopathic cubital tunnel syndrome.

Methods: This randomized controlled study was carried out on 18 adult patients diagnosed with idiopathic cubital tunnel syndrome. They were randomly assigned to undergo either simple decompression or anterior transposition. Clinical and electrophysiological outcomes were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively using standardized criteria.

Results: Both groups didn’t show statistically significant variations as regards age, gender, affected side, and severity of nerve involvement. Simple decompression required significantly less operative time as well as a shorter skin incision compared to anterior transposition (P < 0.05). Non statistically significant differences were revealed between the groups as regards sensory or motor recovery, postoperative nerve conduction velocity improvement, or complication rates (P > 0.05).

Conclusion: Simple decompression and anterior transposition could be both effective and safe for the management of idiopathic cubital tunnel syndrome. Simple decompression had a slight advantage as regards being less invasive and requiring shorter operative time.

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Zagazig University Medical Journal
Volume 31, Issue 10
October 2025
Pages 5104-5116

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