Cadaveric study of 19 elbows examining the anatomy, pressure biomechanics, and ulnar nerve histology of the cubital tunnel — specifically asking whether the common flexor aponeurosis (CFA) is a consistent structure and whether releasing the arcuate ligament alone adequately decompresses the ulnar nerve.
When performing cubital tunnel decompression or anterior ulnar nerve transposition, releasing only the arcuate ligament leaves the CFA intact — and this study shows the CFA generates higher pressures than the proximal tunnel, especially with flexion; always include CFA release in the distal third of the tunnel while protecting the medial collateral ligament complex.
Cadaveric study of 19 elbows examining the anatomy, pressure biomechanics, and ulnar nerve histology of the cubital tunnel — specifically asking whether the common flexor aponeurosis (CFA) is a consistent structure and whether releasing the arcuate ligament alone adequately decompresses the ulnar nerve.
When performing cubital tunnel decompression or anterior ulnar nerve transposition, releasing only the arcuate ligament leaves the CFA intact — and this study shows the CFA generates higher pressures than the proximal tunnel, especially with flexion; always include CFA release in the distal third of the tunnel while protecting the medial collateral ligament complex.