Contact number: 020 7806 4010
Contact number: 020 7078 3831
Everything You Need to Know
Ulnar nerve decompression is a crucial intervention for those experiencing persistent symptoms due to nerve compression. This surgery is particularly beneficial for patients who have not found relief through non-surgical treatments such as splinting, medication, or activity modification.
Key benefits of ulnar nerve decompression include:
Pain Relief: Significant reduction or elimination of pain and discomfort, helping to relieve symptoms effectively.
Improved Sensation: Restoration of normal sensation and function in the affected arm and hand.
Enhanced Mobility: Improved range of motion and strength.
Before the Surgery
Consultation
The first step is a thorough consultation with one of our expert orthopaedic surgeons. During this session, your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments will be reviewed to determine if ulnar nerve decompression is the right option for you. Nerve conduction studies may also be conducted to assess the function of the ulnar nerve and identify any areas of compression.
Health Assessment for Ulnar Nerve Entrapment
A comprehensive health assessment will be conducted to ensure you are fit for surgery. This includes blood tests, imaging studies (such as X-rays or MRI scans), and a review of any medications you are currently taking.
During the assessment, significant signs like muscle damage or wasting may indicate more severe nerve compression, which could necessitate further medical intervention.
Pre-Procedure Instructions
To ensure a smooth procedure and optimal recovery, you will receive detailed pre-procedure instructions. These may include:
Medication Adjustments: Guidance on which medications to stop or continue.
Fasting: Instructions to refrain from eating or drinking after midnight on the day of your surgery.
Lifestyle Advice: Recommendations such as stopping smoking and maintaining a healthy diet.
During the Procedure
Our state-of-the-art facilities are designed to ensure your comfort and safety throughout the procedure. The injection process is performed with the utmost care and precision, guided by advanced imaging technology.
Anesthesia
To ensure your comfort during the procedure, we offer tailored anaesthesia options. Whether it’s local anaesthesia or a combination of local anaesthesia and sedation, our team will ensure you are comfortable and pain-free throughout the procedure.
Injection Process
The core of the procedure involves the precise placement of the needle using imaging guidance. This step is carried out with intricate attention to detail, ensuring the medication is delivered accurately to the targeted area.
Monitoring and Recovery
Immediately following the procedure, you will be taken to our recovery area where our dedicated care team will monitor your initial recovery. You will receive comprehensive post-procedure care instructions and support to manage any discomfort.
After the surgery
Our commitment to your care continues well beyond the operating room.
Immediate Post-Op Care
Managing post-operative effects such as swelling, bruising, and discomfort is crucial. Our team will provide you with pain management strategies and detailed care instructions. Physical therapy may be recommended to help regain strength and flexibility in the affected arm and hand. Additionally, managing nerve injury is essential during the recovery process to prevent complications like numbness, tingling, and loss of muscle function.
Follow-Up Care and Physical Therapy
Regular follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your recovery and assess the success of the surgery. These visits are essential to address any concerns and ensure optimal recovery.
Appointment and Treatment Plan
Initial Consultation
Your journey begins with a detailed consultation to discuss your goals and determine your suitability for ulnar nerve decompression. During this consultation, we will also assess for ulnar nerve entrapment, which can cause symptoms like numbness and tingling in the fingers.
Personalised Treatment Plan
A tailored treatment plan will be developed based on your consultation, outlining the specifics of your procedure and recovery plan. To treat cubital tunnel syndrome, various options are available, including anti-inflammatory medications, bracing, nerve gliding exercises, and steroid use, although steroids are typically not recommended due to potential side effects, such as weakening of the tendons and nerves, which could exacerbate the condition rather than alleviate it.
Pre-Procedure Assessment
A thorough pre-procedure assessment ensures you are fit for surgery, involving necessary tests to uphold the highest standards of care and safety.
The Procedure
Performed by our skilled medical team, the ulnar nerve surgery will focus on achieving the best possible outcomes for your ulnar nerve decompression. Ulnar nerve decompression surgery, which aims to relieve compression of the ulnar nerve, offers significant benefits for patients with severe ulnar neuropathy symptoms.
Aftercare and Recovery
Post-procedure, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions and have follow-up appointments to support your recovery and ensure the best results.
Top Tips
- Follow All Instructions: Adhere strictly to the aftercare guidelines provided by your clinician to avoid complications. This is crucial to prevent severe nerve compression, which can lead to muscle damage or wasting.
- Rest and Recuperation: Allow your body ample time to heal, avoiding strenuous activities that could impact the results.
- Stay Hydrated and Eat Healthily: Maintain a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids to support your recovery and overall well-being.