Procedure
Cubital Tunnel Syndrome
Compression of the ulnar nerve along the inside of the elbow, causing numbness and tingling in the hand. Surgery opens the tunnel around the nerve to give it more space.
Procedure facts
- Duration
- 45–60 minutes
- Anaesthesia
- Regional or general
- Hospital stay
- Day case, no overnight stay
- Pre-admission tests
- Blood tests
- Downtime
- 2–4 weeks
- Driving
- 1–2 weeks
- Exercise
- 4–6 weeks
- Final result
- Up to 1 year (nerve recovery)
Overview
Cubital tunnel syndrome is compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve where it runs along the inside of the elbow. When the nerve is pinched, it causes numbness or tingling in the hand.
Surgery opens the tunnel around the nerve to give it more space, relieving the pressure and the discomfort it causes.
Risks and considerations
Surgery to release the ulnar nerve at the elbow carries the general risks of surgery and some specific to the nerve. The most important thing to understand is that surgery stops the nerve being compressed but cannot undo damage already done: where numbness or weakness has been present a long time, recovery can be slow, partial or occasionally absent, and symptoms can persist or return. Scar tenderness and some elbow stiffness are common early on. Less common risks include injury to the nerve or its small branches and, where the nerve is moved to the front of the elbow, a risk to its blood supply. What recovery is realistic for a given degree of nerve involvement is discussed at the consultation.
How we quote
A quotation follows consultation, because what it costs depends on what the operation actually involves for you — the technique, the time in theatre, and whether anything is being addressed at the same time. We do not publish price lists and we do not quote before examining you.
Arranging a consultation
Book a slot in the clinic diary directly, or send the details of what you are considering and we will reply with the times we have.