Abstract
Introduction: Recurrent complete ulnar nerve dislocation has been perceived as a risk factor for development of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). However, the role of dislocation in the pathogenesis of UNE remains uncertain. Methods: We studied 133 patients with complete ulnar nerve dislocation to determine whether this condition is a risk factor for UNE. In all, the nerve was palpated as it rolled over the medial epicondyle during elbow flexion. Results: Of 56 elbows with unilateral dislocation, UNE localized contralaterally in 17 elbows (30.4%) and ipsilaterally in 10 elbows (17.9%). Of 154 elbows with bilateral dislocation, 26 had UNE (16.9%). Complete dislocation decreased the odds of having UNE by 44% (odds ratio = 0.475; P = 0.028), and was associated with less severe UNE (P = 0.045). Conclusions: UNE occurs less frequently and is less severe on the side of complete dislocation. Complete dislocation may have a protective effect on the ulnar nerve. Muscle Nerve 56: 242–246, 2017.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 242-246 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Muscle and Nerve |
Volume | 56 |
Issue number | 2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 2017 |
Keywords
- nerve conduction studies
- subluxation
- surgery
- ulnar nerve dislocation
- ulnar nerve hypermobility
- ulnar neuropathy at the elbow
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Clinical Neurology
- Physiology (medical)
- Cellular and Molecular Neuroscience
- Physiology