Reoperation for failed decompression of the ulnar nerve in the region of the elbow

Thirty patients who had a revision of a failed decompression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow were followed for a minimum of two years postoperatively. Most of the decompressions were revised by submuscular transposition of the nerve. A satisfactory result was obtained in all but eight patients. At the index procedure, the nerve was found to be compressed at several levels (average, 2.2 levels). For a reoperation to be successful, the ulnar nerve must be examined and all potential levels of compression must be released. An age of more than fifty years, electromyographic evidence of denervation, and previous submuscular transposition were associated with a poor outcome in this series.