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Podnar S, Omejec G. Clinical and neurophysiological recovery of ulnar nerve conduction block at the elbow. Muscle Nerve 2023; 68:722-728. [PMID: 37421240 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS An important mechanism of peripheral nerve motor and sensory dysfunction is conduction block (CB). However, recovery from mechanically induced CB has been rarely studied in humans. The aim of this study was to describe clinical, electrodiagnostic (EDx), and ultrasonographic (US) characteristics of CB recovery in ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). METHODS We recruited a group of consecutive patients presenting to our EDx laboratory with UNE and >50% motor CB. Patients' histories were obtained and neurologic, EDx, and US examinations were repeated every 1-3 mo for at least 12 mo. RESULTS We studied 10 patients (5 men), with a mean age of 63 y (range, 51-81 y). In all affected arms CB was localized to the retrocondylar groove. Following conservative management, myometrically measured index finger abduction improved from a median of 49% to 100% relative to the contralateral index finger, and ulnar nerve CB decreased from a median of 74% to 6%. Most of the improvement took place within 8 mo of symptom onset, and 6 mo after receiving treatment instructions. Mean motor nerve conduction velocity improved from 15 to 27 m/s in the most affected 2-cm ulnar nerve segment. DISCUSSION The resolution of CB after typical chronic compression may take longer than after acute compression. This should be considered by clinicians when estimating prognosis for discussions with patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Podnar
- Division of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Gregor Omejec
- Division of Neurology, Institute of Clinical Neurophysiology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Hearn SL, Jorgensen SP, Robinson LR. Unblocking the ulnar nerve: It takes time. Muscle Nerve 2023; 68:693-695. [PMID: 37632343 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27958] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 08/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sandra L Hearn
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Shawn P Jorgensen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Albany Medical College, Albany, New York, USA
- Department of Family Medicine, Larner Medical College at the University of Vermont, Burlington, Vermont, USA
- Adirondack Rehabilitation Medicine, PLLC, Queensbury, New York, USA
| | - Lawrence R Robinson
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Phan A, Hammert W. Evaluation of PROMIS Outcomes for Surgical Treatment of Cubital Tunnel Syndrome With and Without Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. Hand (N Y) 2023; 18:393-400. [PMID: 34218703 PMCID: PMC10152532 DOI: 10.1177/15589447211028921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessment of outcomes for cubital tunnel syndrome (CuTS) surgeries has been difficult due to heterogeneity in outcome reporting. Our objective was to evaluate the outcomes for 2 cohorts treated surgically for isolated CuTS and for combined CuTS and carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) using Patient Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS). METHODS There were 29 patients in the isolated CuTS cohort and 30 patients in the combined CuTS and CTS cohort. PROMIS Physical Function (PF), Pain Interference (PI), Depression, and Upper Extremity (UE) were completed preoperatively and 1-week, 6-weeks, and 3-months postoperatively. Responsiveness was evaluated by standardized response means (SRM). RESULTS Significant improvements from the 1-week to 6-week postoperative period are shown in the isolated CuTS cohort for PROMIS PF (P = .002), PI (P = .0002), and UE (P = .02), but scores plateau after 6-weeks postoperatively. A similar pattern for the same time points was seen for the combined CuTS and CTS group for PROMIS PF (P = .001), PI (P = .02), and UE (P = .04), with a plateau of scores beyond 6 weeks postoperatively. PROMIS UE was more responsive (SRM range: 0.11-1.03) than the PF (SRM range: 0.02-0.52) and PI (SRM range: 0.11-0.40), which were both mildly responsive for both cohorts. CONCLUSIONS PROMIS lacks the sensitivity to show improvement beyond 6-weeks postoperatively for both isolated CuTS and combined CuTS and CTS. Patients with combined nerve compressions follow similar trajectories in the postoperative period as those with isolated CuTS. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Phan
- University of Rochester Medical Center, NY, USA
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4
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Shook SJ, Ginsberg M, Narayanaswami P, Beekman R, Dubin AH, Katirji B, Swaminathan B, Werner RA, Cartwright MS. Evidence-based guideline: Neuromuscular ultrasound for the diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Muscle Nerve 2021; 65:147-153. [PMID: 34921428 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2021] [Accepted: 11/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The purpose of this literature review is to develop an evidence-based guideline for the use of neuromuscular ultrasound in the diagnosis of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). The proposed research question was: "In patients with suspected UNE, does ulnar nerve enlargement as measured with ultrasound accurately identify those patients with UNE?" METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed, and studies were classified according to American Academy of Neurology criteria for rating articles for diagnostic accuracy. RESULTS Based on Class I evidence in four studies, it is probable that neuromuscular ultrasound measurement of the ulnar nerve at the elbow, either of diameter or cross-sectional area (CSA), is accurate for the diagnosis of UNE. RECOMMENDATION For patients with symptoms and signs suggestive of ulnar neuropathy, clinicians should offer ultrasonographic measurement of ulnar nerve cross-sectional area or diameter to confirm the diagnosis and localize the site of compression (Level B).
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J Shook
- American Association of Neuromuscular & Electrodiagnostic Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota, USA.,Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Center, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Matthew Ginsberg
- Department of Neurology, Akron Children's Hospital, Akron, Ohio, USA
| | - Pushpa Narayanaswami
- Department of Neurology, Neuromuscular Division, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, Ohio, USA
| | - Roy Beekman
- Department of Neurology, Zuyderland Medisch Centrum, Sittard-Geleen, The Netherlands
| | - Andrew H Dubin
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Bashar Katirji
- Neurological Institute, University Hospitals, Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Bharathi Swaminathan
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chicago Medical School, North Chicago, Illinois, USA
| | - Robert A Werner
- Michigan Medicine, Ann Arbor VA Health System, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Michael S Cartwright
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
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Mondelli M, Aretini A. Cutaneous silent period in ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Muscle Nerve 2021; 65:225-232. [PMID: 34724221 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2021] [Revised: 10/24/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS The cutaneous silent period (CSP) reflects the function of A-delta sensory fibers. There are few studies on CSP in nerve entrapment syndromes. This study aims to evaluate the neurophysiological abnormalities of small-diameter sensory fibers in ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) by means of CSP. METHODS We consecutively evaluated UNE patients at one electrodiagnostic laboratory. The CSP was obtained upon stimulating the fifth (D5) and third digits, recording from the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) and abductor pollicis brevis (APB) muscles. RESULTS We enrolled 37 UNE patients (mean age 55.4 ± 11.2 y) and 30 controls (mean age 51.2 ± 11.1 y). The combinations of the D5-APB and D5-FDI mean onset latencies of CSP were significantly more prolonged in patients (83.7 ± 6.8 and 84.5 ± 8 ms, respectively) than in controls (78.2 ± 8.1 and 79.4 ± 7.6 ms, respectively). The D5-FDI duration of CSP was shorter in patients (52.2 ± 8.3 ms) than in controls (55.8 ± 7 ms). The mean of the onset latencies of D5-FDI and D5-APB was related to the clinical severity (P = .013 and .0025, respectively). D5-APB and D5-FDI onset latencies were more prolonged and the duration was shorter in the UNE group with absent ulnar sensory nerve action potentials (SNAPs) and axonal motor damage than in patients with preserved SNAPs and with demyelinating damage. DISCUSSION CSP was able to demonstrate abnormalities of small-diameter myelinated sensory fibers. This damage was directly related to UNE severity and to axonal damage of motor fibers. Absence of a sensory large-diameter fiber response did not exclude preserved residual small fiber conduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Mondelli
- EMG Service, Local Health Unit Toscana Sud Est, Siena, Italy
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Mamarabadi M, Morren JA, Shook SJ. Enhancing diagnostic accuracy using a side-to-side cross-sectional area ratio for the diagnosis of unilateral ulnar mononeuropathy at the elbow. Muscle Nerve 2021; 63:690-696. [PMID: 33543772 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuromuscular ultrasonography (NMUS) is a valuable adjunct to electrodiagnostic testing for the diagnosis of entrapment neuropathy. The aim of this study was to determine whether diagnostic accuracy of NMUS could be enhanced in patients with unilateral ulnar mononeuropathy at the elbow (UNE) by utilizing side-to-side ulnar nerve cross-sectional area (CSA) ratios. METHODS Retrospective case-control analysis of unilateral UNE cases identified cutoff values for elbow segment ulnar nerve maximum CSA (MCSA) of the symptomatic/asymptomatic limb (M ratio), as well as side-to-side ratios comparing MCSA with ipsilateral CSA at the Guyon canal (E/G), middle forearm (E/F), and middle humerus (E/H). Diagnostic accuracy values were calculated. RESULTS The optimal M-ratio cut-off was 1.22 (sensitivity, 92.9%; specificity, 97.8%; accuracy, 95.4%). Optimal cutoffs for inter-E/G, -E/F, and -E/H ratios were 1.07 (sensitivity, 98%; specificity, 78%; accuracy, 87.7%), 1.11 (sensitivity, 95%; specificity, 80%; accuracy, 87.2%), and 1.18 (sensitivity, 95%; specificity, 93%; accuracy, 94%), respectively. DISCUSSION The M ratio and inter-E/H ratio exhibited high diagnostic accuracy for unilateral UNE. Prospective studies are needed to compare the accuracy of the new measures with a single MCSA measurement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mansoureh Mamarabadi
- Department of Neurology, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - John A Morren
- Neuromuscular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
| | - Steven J Shook
- Neuromuscular Center, Neurological Institute, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Cleveland, Ohio
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Mondelli M, Mattioli S, Vinciguerra C, Ciaramitaro P, Aretini A, Greco G, Sicurelli F, Giorgi S, Curti S. Comorbidities, anthropometric, demographic, and lifestyle risk factors for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow: A case control study. J Peripher Nerv Syst 2020; 25:401-412. [PMID: 33140525 DOI: 10.1111/jns.12420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/26/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
We performed a prospective multicenter case-control study to explore the association between ulnar neuropathy at elbow (UNE) and body and elbow anthropometric measures, demographic and lifestyle factors, and comorbidities. Cases and controls were consecutively enrolled among subjects admitted to four electromyography labs. UNE diagnosis was made on clinical and neurographic findings. The control group included all other subjects without signs/symptoms of ulnar neuropathy and with normal ulnar nerve neurography. Anthropometric measurements included weight, height, waist, hip circumferences, and external measures of elbow using a caliper. The participants filled in a self-administered questionnaire on personal characteristics, lifestyle factors, and medical history. We estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) by fitting unconditional logistic regression models adjusted by center and education level. We enrolled 220 cases (males 61.8%; mean age 51.7 years) and 460 controls (47.4% males; mean age 47.8 years). At multivariable analysis, UNE was associated to male gender (OR = 2.4, 95%CI = 1.6-3.7), smoking habits (>25 pack-years (OR = 2.3, 95%CI = 1.3-4.1), body mass index (OR = 1.05, 95%CI 1.01-1.10), polyneuropathies (OR = 4.1, 95%CI 1.5-11.5), and leaning with flexed elbow on a table/desk (OR = 1.5, 95%CI 1.0-2.2). Cubital groove width (CGW) turned out to be negatively associated with UNE (OR = 0.80, 95%CI = 0.74-0.85). Our study suggests that some personal factors especially anthropometric measures of the elbow may play a role in UNE pathogenesis as the measures of wrist in CTS. We demonstrated that for each millimeter of smaller CGW the risk of idiopathic UNE increases of 25%.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Mondelli
- EMG Service, Local Health Unit Toscana Sud Est, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Mattioli
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Claudia Vinciguerra
- EMG Service, Local Health Unit Toscana Sud Est, Siena, Italy.,Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Palma Ciaramitaro
- Clinical Neurophysiology, CTO, Department of Neuroscience, AOU "Città della Salute e della Scienza", Torino, Italy
| | | | - Giuseppe Greco
- EMG Service, Local Health Unit Toscana Sud Est, "Nottola" Hospital, Montepulciano, Siena, Italy
| | - Francesco Sicurelli
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Neurosciences, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Stefano Giorgi
- Clinical Neurophysiology, CTO, Department of Neuroscience, AOU "Città della Salute e della Scienza", Torino, Italy
| | - Stefania Curti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
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8
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Fidanci H, Öztürk I, Köylüoğlu AC, Yildiz M, Buturak Ş, Arlier Z. The needle electromyography findings in the neurophysiological classification of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Turk J Med Sci 2020; 50:804-810. [PMID: 32222127 PMCID: PMC7379465 DOI: 10.3906/sag-1910-59] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background/aim Although ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is the second most common entrapment mononeuropathy, there are few reports on its neurophysiological classification. In this study, we tried to find out the role of needle electromyography (EMG) in the neurophysiological classification of UNE. Materials and methods UNE patients who met the clinical and neurophysiological diagnostic criteria and healthy individuals were included in this study. Reference values of nerve conduction studies were obtained from healthy individuals. Needle EMG was performed to all UNE patients. According to the neurophysiological classification proposed by Padua, UNE patients were classified as mild, moderate, and severe. Results Thirty-one controls and thirty-five UNE patients were included in the study. There was mild UNE in 23 patients, moderate UNE in 8, and severe UNE in 4. Abnormal needle EMG findings were present in all patients with moderate and severe UNE and in 12 patients with mild UNE. Conclusion Abnormal needle EMG findings are seen in most of the UNE patients. Therefore, it is not practical to use needle EMG findings in the neurophysiological classification. Needle EMG abnormalities may also be present in patients with mild UNE due to axonal degeneration or motor conduction block.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halit Fidanci
- Department of Clinical Neurophysiology, Adana City Training & Research Hospital, Adana, Turkey,Department of Neurology, Adana City Training & Research Hospital, Adana Turkey
| | - Ilker Öztürk
- Department of Neurology, Adana City Training & Research Hospital, Adana Turkey
| | | | - Mehmet Yildiz
- Department of Neurology, Adana City Training & Research Hospital, Adana Turkey
| | - Şencan Buturak
- Department of Neurology, Adana City Training & Research Hospital, Adana Turkey
| | - Zülfikar Arlier
- Department of Neurology, Adana City Training & Research Hospital, Adana Turkey
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9
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Hamscha UM, Tinhofer I, Heber S, Grisold W, Weninger WJ, Meng S. A reliable technique for ultrasound-guided perineural injection in ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Muscle Nerve 2016; 56:237-241. [PMID: 27875620 DOI: 10.1002/mus.25490] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/21/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) is a common peripheral compression neuropathy and, in most cases, occurs at 2 sites, the retroepicondylar groove or the cubital tunnel. With regard to a potential therapeutic approach with perineural corticosteroid injection, the aim of this study was to evaluate the distribution of injection fluid applied at a standard site. METHODS We performed ultrasound-guided (US-guided) perineural injections to the ulnar nerve halfway between the olecranon and the medial epicondyle in 21 upper limbs from 11 non-embalmed cadavers. In anatomic dissection we investigated the spread of injected ink. RESULTS Ink was successfully injected into the perineural sheath of the ulnar nerve in all 21 cases (cubital tunnel: 21 of 21; retroepicondylar groove: 19 of 21). CONCLUSION US-guided injection between the olecranon and the medial epicondyle is a feasible and safe method to reach the most common sites of ulnar nerve entrapment. Muscle Nerve 56: 237-241, 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ulrike M Hamscha
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & Medical Imaging Cluster, Medical University Vienna, Austria
| | - Ines Tinhofer
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & Medical Imaging Cluster, Medical University Vienna, Austria.,Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Medical University Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Heber
- Center for Physiology and Pharmacology, Medical University Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Wolfgang J Weninger
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & Medical Imaging Cluster, Medical University Vienna, Austria
| | - Stefan Meng
- Center for Anatomy and Cell Biology & Medical Imaging Cluster, Medical University Vienna, Austria.,Department of Radiology, KFJ Hospital, Vienna, Austria
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10
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Cheng Y, Xu X, Chen W, Wang Y. Doppler sonography for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow. Muscle Nerve 2016; 54:258-63. [PMID: 26718909 DOI: 10.1002/mus.25022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Revised: 12/17/2015] [Accepted: 12/23/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The aim of this study was to determine the value of Doppler sonography for evaluation of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). METHODS A total of 102 patients with a clinical suspicion of UNE and 50 healthy controls were examined by Doppler and gray-scale sonography. RESULTS Intraneural vascularization was found in 31 (46.3%) of 67 patients with confirmed UNE and in 3 (6.0%) of 50 healthy controls. Combining gray-scale sonography measurement of nerve size and the presence of intraneural vascularization increased sensitivity by 3%, but decreased the specificity. Patients with intraneural vascularization had more severe disease than those without intraneural vascularization (P < 0.05). The variables obtained by Doppler sonography were associated with the severity of UNE (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Doppler sonography is not helpful for diagnosing UNE but can be used to assess the severity of UNE. Muscle Nerve 54: 258-263, 2016.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Cheng
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Fudan University affiliated Huashan Hospital, 12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200012, China
| | - Xiuyue Xu
- Department of Hand Surgery, Fudan University affiliated Huashan Hospital, Shanghai, China
| | - Weimin Chen
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Fudan University affiliated Huashan Hospital, 12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200012, China
| | - Yi Wang
- Department of Ultrasound in Medicine, Fudan University affiliated Huashan Hospital, 12 Urumqi Middle Road, Shanghai, 200012, China
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Cartwright MS, Griffin LP, Dowlen H, Bargoil JM, Caress JB, Li ZJ, Defranzo AJ, Wiesler ER, Tuohy CJ, Balakrishnan N, Molnar JA, Baute V, Koman LA, Poehling GG, Walker FO. A randomized trial of diagnostic ultrasound to improve outcomes in focal neuropathies. Muscle Nerve 2015; 52:746-53. [PMID: 26296394 DOI: 10.1002/mus.24884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/20/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neuromuscular ultrasound is valid, reliable, and accurate, but it is not known whether combining it with electrodiagnostic studies leads to better outcomes in individuals with focal neuropathies. METHODS One hundred twenty individuals with focal neuropathy, based on history, examination, and electrodiagnosis, were enrolled in this study. All patients underwent neuromuscular ultrasound and were randomized to either have their ultrasound results sent to the referring physician or not have them sent. Outcomes were assessed at 6 months by evaluators blinded to group assignment. RESULTS The Overall Disability Sum Score and 7 of 8 domains of the Medical Outcomes Study 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36) showed more improvement in the "report sent" group, although only the general health perception domain was significant (P = 0.005). CONCLUSIONS Most 6-month outcomes did not reach statistical significance between the 2 groups. However, the "report sent" group had trends toward better outcomes, with significance being reached in the general health perception domain of the SF-36.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael S Cartwright
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
| | - Leah P Griffin
- Division of Public Health Sciences, Department of Biostatistics, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Hugh Dowlen
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
| | - Jessica M Bargoil
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
| | - James B Caress
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
| | - Zhongyu J Li
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Anthony J Defranzo
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Ethan R Wiesler
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Christopher J Tuohy
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Nikhil Balakrishnan
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
| | - Joseph A Molnar
- Department of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Vanessa Baute
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
| | - L Andrew Koman
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Gary G Poehling
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Rehabilitation, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Francis O Walker
- Department of Neurology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Main Floor Reynolds Tower, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, 27157, USA
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Speach DP, Lee DJ, Reed JD, Palmer BA, Abt P, Elfar JC. Is medial elbow pain correlated with cubital tunnel syndrome? An electrodiagnostic study. Muscle Nerve 2015; 53:252-4. [PMID: 26032904 DOI: 10.1002/mus.24719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2015] [Revised: 05/20/2015] [Accepted: 05/28/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Medial elbow pain is often considered to be a symptom associated with ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE). We examined the relationship between medial elbow pain and a positive electrodiagnostic (EDx) test result for UNE. METHODS We performed a retrospective review of 884 patients referred for EDx evaluation of UNE. Regression models were used to determine the odds ratios between clinical findings and a positive EDx result for UNE. RESULTS Patients reported medial elbow pain in 44.3% of cases. Clinical factors that correlated with a positive EDx study result for UNE included male gender, small and ring finger numbness, ulnar intrinsic weakness, and age. Medial elbow pain was negatively correlated with a positive EDx result. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates a negative correlation between medial elbow pain and a positive EDx result for UNE. Medial elbow pain should not be considered a clear diagnostic symptom of UNE.
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Affiliation(s)
- David P Speach
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 665, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA
| | - Daniel J Lee
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 665, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA
| | - Jeffrey D Reed
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 665, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA
| | - Bradley A Palmer
- Center for Orthopedics, St. Clair Hospital, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Patrick Abt
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 665, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA
| | - John C Elfar
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Rochester Medical Center, 601 Elmwood Avenue, Box 665, Rochester, New York, 14642, USA
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Song JW, Chung KC, Prosser LA. Treatment of ulnar neuropathy at the elbow: cost-utility analysis. J Hand Surg Am 2012; 37:1617-1629.e3. [PMID: 22835586 PMCID: PMC7904237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhsa.2012.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2011] [Revised: 05/09/2012] [Accepted: 05/11/2012] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The choice of surgical treatment for ulnar neuropathy at the elbow (UNE) remains controversial. A cost-utility analysis was performed for 4 surgical UNE treatment options. We hypothesized that simple decompression would emerge as the most cost-effective strategy. METHODS A cost-utility analysis was performed from the societal perspective. A decision analytic model was designed comparing 4 strategies: (1) simple decompression followed by a salvage surgery (anterior submuscular transposition) for a poor outcome, (2) anterior subcutaneous transposition followed by a salvage surgery for a poor outcome, (3) medial epicondylectomy followed by a salvage surgery for a poor outcome, and (4) anterior submuscular transposition. A poor outcome when anterior submuscular transposition was the initial surgery was considered an end point in the model. Preference values for temporary health states for UNE, the surgical procedures, and the complications were obtained through a time trade-off survey administered to family members and friends who accompanied patients to physician visits. Probabilities of clinical outcomes were derived from a Cochrane Collaboration meta-analysis and a systematic MEDLINE and EMBASE search of the literature. Medical care costs (in 2009 U.S. dollars) were derived from Medicare reimbursement rates. The model estimated quality-adjusted life-years and costs for a 3-year time horizon. A 3% annual discount rate was applied to costs and quality-adjusted life-years. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were calculated, and sensitivity analyses performed. RESULTS Simple decompression as an initial procedure was the most cost-effective treatment strategy. A multi-way sensitivity analysis varying the preference values for the surgeries and a model structure sensitivity analysis varying the model assumptions did not change the conclusion. Under all evaluated scenarios, simple decompression yielded incremental cost-effectiveness ratios less than US$2,027 per quality-adjusted life-year. CONCLUSIONS Simple decompression as an initial treatment option is cost-effective for UNE according to commonly used cost-effectiveness thresholds. TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Economic and Decision Analysis III.
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