Nerve Decompression (Cubital Tunnel Surgery)

Nerve Decompression (Cubital Tunnel Surgery)

MedStar Orthopaedic Institute is pleased to offer nerve decompression surgery throughout the Washington, D.C. region. Our fellowship-trained elbow surgeons offer you the comprehensive care you need for an effective procedure and a successful recovery.

What is nerve decompression?

Nerve decompression, also known as ulnar nerve release surgery, is a procedure used to treat cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve compression). In cubital tunnel syndrome, the nerve on the inside of your elbow (your ulnar nerve) becomes compressed due to an injury or overuse of the joint, causing numbness, tingling, and pain. To treat this condition, your orthopedic surgeon releases the pinched nerve in your elbow, relieving elbow pain and numbness and tingling associated with cubital tunnel syndrome.

What does nerve decompression involve?

Surgery for a pinched nerve in the elbow involves removing pressure on the ulnar nerve—sometimes called the “funny bone”. The below techniques will allow our surgeons to achieve decompression of  the nerve:

• Opening the tunnel where the nerve runs inside your elbow
• Shifting the nerve to the front portion of the elbow
• Trimming the inner part of the elbow, known as the medial epicondyle
• Moving the nerve, either within muscle, under the muscle, or under a layer of fat

What does nerve decompression recovery involve?

After undergoing cubital tunnel syndrome surgery, your recovery may involve one or more of the following, depending on your individual needs and the advice of our specialists at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute:

• Physical therapy
• Restricting movement
• Exercise therapy
• Arm splint
• Pain medication
• Anti-inflammatory medication

What are the benefits of undergoing nerve decompression?

The benefits of visiting MedStar Orthopaedic Institute for your ulnar nerve surgery include:

• Elbow pain relief
• Relief from arm numbness or tingling
• Restored range of motion
• Improved dexterity
• Improved range of motion
• Ability to use the arm during physical activities after recovery

Why is nerve decompression performed?

Ulnar nerve decompression surgery is used to treat cubital tunnel syndrome, which is primarily the result of one or more of the following:

• Direct blow to the elbow
• Fluid buildup, causing swelling
• Prolonged pressure on the elbow
• Overuse of the elbow joint

If you believe you may need nerve decompression, call 202-295-0511 to schedule a consultation with one of our orthopedic specialists at MedStar Orthopaedic Institute. Our doctors have years of experience treating a wide range of shoulder and elbow conditions and are pleased to offer comprehensive cubital tunnel syndrome care in the Washington, D.C. area.