Cubital tunnel syndrome is a condition caused by the cubital tunnel inside the elbow compressing on the ulnar nerve. This condition is also called ulnar nerve entrapment. The ulnar nerve is one of three main nerves in the arm, and it travels from the neck to the hand. When this nerve becomes constricted and causes symptoms, Dr. Sina Rajamand can perform cubital tunnel decompression surgery at Battle Born Brain and Spine in Reno.

Common symptoms of cubital tunnel syndrome, or ulnar nerve entrapment, are numbness, tingling and weakness in the hand. Many people are familiar with the sensation of “hitting your funny bone” that causes minor pain and tingling. This is the ulnar nerve. When use of your hand is impeded or other damage to the hand is possible, or when conservative measures no longer bring relief, Dr. Rajamand may recommend surgery. Cubital tunnel decompression surgery is an outpatient, minimally-invasive procedure that normally sees patients returning home the same day.

The cubital tunnel can compress the ulnar nerve for a number of reasons, including:

• Repeated bending of the elbow, such as when sleeping
• Bending the elbow causes the ulnar nerve to slide over a bone, causing irritation and inflammation
• Leaning on the elbows for prolonged periods of time
• Fluid buildup in the elbow
• Trauma to the elbow
• Bone spurs or arthritis in the elbow joint

Carson City Ulnar Nerve Entrapment Surgery

In ulnar nerve entrapment surgery, Dr. Rajamand can divide the ligament that forms the roof, or covering, of the cubital tunnel, which provides extra room and decreases pressure on the nerve. As the ligament heals, new tissue grows over the extra space, closing the cubital tunnel, and leaving extra space for the ulnar nerve.

If the ulnar nerve itself tends to move and cause compression, Dr. Rajamand can remove a part of the medial epicondyle, where the arm muscles attach to the elbow. This allows the nerve to move freely without becoming caught and compressed from muscle movements.

Dr. Rajamand can recommend the best form of surgery to relieve your condition after a thorough examination and surgical consultation at Battle Born Brain and Spine. Contact our Reno clinic to schedule a consultation for cubital tunnel syndrome/decompression, or ulnar nerve entrapment surgery.