Primary results of anterior submuscular transposition of ulnar nerve with medial epicondylar osteotomy for friction neuritis in athletes

Abstract

　The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of anterior submuscular transposition of the ulnar nerve with medial epicondylar osteotomy ( ATMEO ) for friction neuritis in athletes. Eleven athletes with friction neuritis of the ulnar nerve at the elbow were underwent surgery which was ATMEO of the ulnar nerve with medial epicondylar osteotomy. Grip strength, ten test, disability of arm, shoulder and hand ( DASH ) score ( sports ) were evaluated. The time to union, and to return to play their sports were recorded. The mean grip strength compared to the healthy side was 0.56 preoperatively and 0.98 at three months after surgery. The mean ten test improved from 5.6 preoperatively to 10 at three months after surgery. The DASH score ( sports ) improved from 93.2 preoperatively to 0 in all patients at three months after surgery. Time to union was 3.5 months, and time to return to play their sports was 3.2 months. Non-union occurred in a volleyball player, who had removed her bone fragment. ATMEO of the ulnar nerve with medial epicondylar osteotomy is a useful surgical technique for the treatment of friction ulnar neuritis in athletes. Non-union after surgery was considered as the cause of medial elbow pain.