Nerve Entrapment Syndrome

The best-known peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome is carpal tunnel syndrome. However, other compression syndromes also belong to this group of nerve entrapment syndromes, such as cubital tunnel syndrome / ulnar sulcus syndrome (compression of the ulnar nerve at the elbow), supinator syndrome, or pronator teres syndrome.

When is surgery needed?

To prevent permanent damage, including paralysis and loss of sensation in the arm or hand, a definite nerve compression syndrome should be promptly treated surgically. Only timely intervention can prevent permanent impairment. If a peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome of the hand is suspected, a neurologist should be consulted before surgery to confirm the diagnosis through diagnostic measurements.

What happens during surgery?

All nerve procedures are performed under microsurgical conditions, preserving tissue as much as possible. The affected nerve is usually decompressed, allowing it to recover before irreversible damage (sensory deficits and/or paralysis) occurs.

Aftercare

No specific aftercare is required. The affected limb generally remains freely mobile post-operatively. Only the wound is protected by a dressing until the sutures are removed.