Functional Results after Intramuscular Ulnar Nerve Anterior Transposition for Young Adults Patients

Abstract

Background: This study investigated the functional outcomes of intramuscular ulnar nerve transposition (IMUNT) in young adults with cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS). Methods: This retrospective study enrolled 37 military soldiers on active duty diagnosed with and treated for CuTS to determine the compression sites, complication rate, and postoperative results. Patient outcomes were analyzed using the Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) questionnaire and the Bishop–Kleinman rating scales. Results: Patient outcomes were analyzed after a mean follow-up duration of 26.1 (22–29) months for 37 extremities. DASH scores improved from 38.7 (range, 13–63 points) preoperatively to 5.8 (range, 0–18 points) postoperatively. Patient improvement was statistically significant (p < 0.05). Based on the 12-point Bishop–Kleinman rating system, 30 (82.1%) patients were graded as excellent; five (13.5%) as good, and two (5.4%) as failed outcomes. Statistically significant improvements in both key pinch and grip strength were noted. Complications included one case of transient neuroparaxias of the medial antebrachial cutaneous nerve and one case of hematoma formation. Conclusions: We consider intramuscular ulnar nerve transposition to be a satisfactory procedure for CuTS. The procedure enhances upper limb function, thus allowing the patients to resume their physically demanding work with minimal complications.