The ulnar nerve is closely related to the medial epicondyle of the humerus, making it highly susceptible to injury and subsequent complications from elbow trauma.

bubble_chart Pathogenesis

The causes of ulnar neuritis are often related to elbow fractures and their resulting deformities or abnormal bone growth. Conditions such as cubitus valgus deformity after a humerus external condyle fracture, poor reduction or scar hyperplasia after a medial epicondyle fracture, and elbow heterotopic ossification can all lead to traction or compression of the ulnar nerve, resulting in injury.

bubble_chart Clinical Manifestations

Delayed ulnar neuritis causes ulnar nerve palsy symptoms, with a slow onset initially presenting as numbness and pain on the ulnar side of the hand. In prolonged cases, complete sensory loss may occur. The muscles innervated by the ulnar nerve exhibit weakened strength, and in advanced stages, claw hand deformity develops, along with atrophy of the hypothenar and interosseous muscles. A thickened ulnar nerve can be palpated at the elbow, and Tinel's sign is positive.

bubble_chart Treatment Measures

Once symptoms of ulnar nerve palsy appear, surgical treatment should be performed as early as possible. The earlier the treatment, the better the outcome. The surgical procedure involves anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve and internal neurolysis.