Page 3 - Safeview - Cubital Tunnel Booklet - 2019

Cubital Tunnel Release

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• Identify the medial • To complete the
epicondyle and distal release, first
olecranon process. insert the synovial
A 2 cm longitudinal elevator deep to the
incision is made at the forearm fascia.
mid-point of these • Insertion depth is
bony landmarks.
• Divide the arcuate typically between
ligament (of Osborne), 5-6 cm.
and identify the ulnar
nerve.
• A proximal release of
the ulnar nerve may
be completed under
direct visualization.
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• Dilate the cubital • Insert the SafeView
tunnel space with cannula. Maintain
the sequential posterior pressure on
dilators. the hub of the cannula
to preserve its position
beneath the fascia.
• Insert a 4 mm 30
degree arthroscope.
The cannula is appro-
priately positioned
when the ulnar nerve
can be visualized along
the entire length of the
cannula floor.

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Optional: • Rotate the rasp handle
• An optional rasp by 90 degrees to an
may be used to improve upright position. Rasp
visualization of the the undersurface of the
forearm fascia prior fascia to clear away
to the release. any synovial tissue.
• Insert the rasp
superficial to the
arthroscope with the
handle oriented parallel
to the elbow
Rotate 90°
to upright
position

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• Insert the forward • Following a complete
cutting knife through release of the cubital
the hub of the cannula. tunnel, the elbow is
• Retract the skin proxi- taken through a full
mally, and engage the range of motion. If
proximal edge of the ulnar nerve subluxation
forearm fascia. is detected, a transposi-
• Divide the fascia under tion or epicondylectomy
direct visualization. Care may be needed.
must be taken to ensure • Skin closure is achieved
that the ulnar nerve is in the usual fashion.
visualized along the • Per surgeon preference,
entire length of the apply a bulky soft ban-
cannula during division. dage or long arm splint.