If you’re struggling with numbness, tingling, or weakness in your ring and pinky fingers, you may be dealing with cubital tunnel syndrome. At Sharma Hand & Nerve, Dr. Ketan Sharma offers expert cubital tunnel release surgery to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve and restore proper hand and arm function.
What is Cubital Tunnel Release?
Cubital tunnel release relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow, where it passes through a narrow space known as the cubital tunnel. This compression can lead to symptoms like numbness, tingling, hand weakness, or muscle wasting, particularly in the ring and pinky fingers. During surgery, Dr. Sharma carefully enlarges or decompresses the tunnel to reduce nerve irritation and improve function. The procedure is often performed for patients who have not responded to non-surgical treatments or whose symptoms are progressively worsening.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms Indicating That You May Need a Cubital Tunnel Release?
If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort or changes in sensation along the inner side of your arm, it may be due to pressure on the ulnar nerve. When symptoms interfere with daily function or fail to improve with conservative care, surgical treatment may be necessary. Common signs and symptoms of cubital tunnel release include:
- Feeling of numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Pain along the inside of the elbow or forearm
- Weak grip strength or difficulty holding objects
- Muscle wasting in the hand, especially around the pinky
- Symptoms that worsen when the elbow is bent for long periods
- Clumsiness or frequent dropping of items due to poor hand coordination
What Does Cubital Tunnel Release Treat?
Cubital tunnel release is performed to treat cubital tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by compression or irritation of the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel at the elbow. This nerve controls sensation in the ring and pinky fingers and plays a critical role in hand coordination.
When the nerve is compressed, it can lead to pain, numbness, and even muscle weakness in the hand and forearm. Over time, this condition can severely impact hand function.
What Happens During a Cubital Tunnel Release?
During cubital tunnel release surgery, Dr. Sharma carefully relieves pressure on the ulnar nerve at the elbow. After making a small incision along the inner part of the elbow, he identifies the compressed ulnar nerve and creates more space around it by releasing tight tissue or ligaments within the cubital tunnel. In some cases, the nerve may also be repositioned to the front of the elbow to prevent future compression.
The entire procedure is performed under regional or general anesthesia and typically takes under an hour. Dr. Sharma uses precise microsurgical techniques to minimize tissue disruption and optimize healing. Once the nerve is decompressed, the incision is closed with sutures, and a soft bandage is applied to protect the area during recovery.
What is Recovery Like After a Cubital Tunnel Release?
Recovery from cubital tunnel release is typically straightforward, though some soreness, swelling, or mild stiffness at the elbow is normal in the first few days. Most patients can return to light activities within a week, while full recovery, including return of strength and sensation, may take several weeks to months, depending on the severity of nerve compression. Dr. Sharma will monitor your healing closely and may recommend physical therapy to optimize your outcome.
To support a smooth recovery, be sure to:
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry
- Limit arm movement and avoid heavy lifting initially
- Elevate the arm to reduce swelling
- Take prescribed medications as directed for pain or inflammation
- Attend follow-up appointments to track nerve healing
- Begin gentle range-of-motion exercises as instructed
- Notify the clinic if numbness or weakness persists or worsens
Why Choose Dr. Sharma for a Cubital Tunnel Release?
Dr. Ketan Sharma is a board-certified hand and nerve surgeon with advanced training in complex peripheral nerve surgery. With a background in plastic and reconstructive surgery and fellowship training under a pioneer in orthoplastic care, Dr. Sharma offers exceptional expertise in relieving nerve compression conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome. He performs hundreds of nerve procedures annually, taking a meticulous, patient-centered approach to each case to ensure optimal surgical outcomes and long-term relief.
Here’s why patients trust Dr. Sharma with their cubital tunnel release:
- Offers advanced, minimally invasive surgical techniques
- Prioritizes nerve preservation and functional outcomes
- Provides individualized treatment plans based on your symptoms
- Utilizes the physical exam as a powerful diagnostic tool
- Ensures thorough follow-up and recovery support
Schedule a consultation today to find out if cubital tunnel release is right for you.
