NHS Ulnar Nerve Release | Deeping Surgical

What is a Ulnar Nerve Entrapment?

Ulnar nerve entrapment (also known as cubital tunnel syndrome) occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed or irritated, typically at the elbow (the cubital tunnel). This nerve controls sensation and movement in the forearm and hand, particularly the ring and little fingers.

Common symptoms include:

Numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers

Hand weakness or grip problems

Pain in the inner elbow

Muscle wasting in severe or long-standing cases

When Should I Seek Treatment?

You should consider treatment if:

Symptoms last for more than a few weeks

You experience persistent numbness or tingling in the hand

You find it difficult to hold or grip objects

Your symptoms are interfering with sleep or daily tasks

You notice muscle wasting or hand weakness

What is the NHS Criteria for this procedure?

Ulnar Nerve Release (Cubital Tunnel Syndrome) *NO prior approval needed*

The ICB will only fund injections and decompression where the following criteria are met:

• where there are neurological signs of tingling and numbness in the little and ring finger

Can It Be Treated Without Surgery?

Yes, in mild to moderate cases. Treatment options include:

Activity modification to reduce pressure on the elbow

Elbow padding or splints, especially at night

Anti-inflammatory medications

Physiotherapy

What is Ulnar Nerve Release Surgery?

Ulnar nerve release is typically done under local anaesthetic. The surgeon makes an incision along the inner part of the elbow and frees the ulnar nerve from the surrounding tissue that may be compressing it.

What to Expect Before and After Surgery

Before Surgery:

You will have a consultation with the Surgeon immediately prior to the procedure to discuss risks and benefits.

you can eat and drink as normal on the day of the procedure.

If you take any blood-thinning medication, it is important that you advise the Admin team prior to your appointment.

Please remove rings and jewellery from the hand having the procedure. Furthermore, due the risk of infection, please remove nail polish from both hands.

After Surgery:

Your hand will be bandaged and you will be given instructions on wound care. Keep your heavier bandage on and your hand elevated as much as possible for the first 72 hours.

Mild pain, swelling and stiffness are common but should improve over time. Over-the-counter painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are recommended for 24-48 hours.

Stitches (if not dissolvable) are removed after 7–14 days

Gentle movement is encouraged after a few days; full recovery may take 6–12 weeks

What Are the Risks?

Ulnar nerve release is generally very safe. However, risks may include:

Infection or wound problems

Nerve irritation or continued symptoms

Scar sensitivity

Injury to surrounding nerves or blood vessels (rare)

Return of symptoms if compression recurs

How Do I Prepare?

Remove watches or jewellery on the affected arm. Nail polish should be removed from both hands to reduce risk of infection

Wear a short-sleeved top on the day of the procedure

Inform us of any allergies, bleeding disorders, or regular medications

Patients Asking a doctor Questions _edit

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will I be awake during the procedure?
A: Yes, the procedure is done under local anaesthetic. You won’t feel pain, just some pressure or movement.

Q: How long does the surgery take?
A: About 30 minutes.

Q: How soon can I return to work?
A: Light duties after 1–2 weeks; full manual work may take 6-12 weeks or more.

Q: Will the symptoms go away immediately?
A: Some improvement may be immediate, but numbness or weakness may take several weeks or months to fully recover.