Won-Taek Oh

Ulnar nerve stability-based surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome via a small incision: a comparison with classic anterior nerve transposition

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to compare the clinical outcomes of ulnar nerve stability-based surgery via a small incision with those of classic anterior transposition of the ulnar nerve for cubital tunnel syndrome.MethodsFrom March 2008 to December 2013, 107 patients with cubital tunnel syndrome underwent simple decompression or anterior transposition via a small incision, according to an ulnar nerve stability-based decision based on an assessment of intraoperative ulnar nerve stability (group A, n = 51), or anterior transposition via a classic incision (group B, n = 56). Clinical outcome was assessed using grip and pinch strength, two-point discrimination, the mean of the disabilities of arm, shoulder, and hand (DASH) survey, and the modified Bishop scale.ResultsAt the final follow-up, all outcome measures improved significantly in both groups and there were no significant differences between the two groups. However, there were fewer operation-related complications in group A (one revision surgery) than in group B (one superficial infection, two painful scars, and five cases of numbness at the medial elbow).ConclusionsOutcomes after the ulnar nerve stability-based approach and anterior transposition were similar, although more patients experienced operation-related complications after anterior transposition via a classic incision. Making an ulnar nerve stability-based decision to perform either simple decompression or anterior transposition via a small incision seems to be a better strategy for patients with cubital tunnel syndrome.

Operative Treatment for Nonunion of the Distal Scaphoid

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to analyze the clinical and radiological outcomes of distal scaphoid nonunion patients who underwent operative treatment. Methods: From July 2006 to May 2014, there were a total of 9 distal scaphoid nonunion patients, with a mean age of 32 years. The mean time from symptom onset to operation was 15 months. Operative treatment was performed through a volar approach, osteosynthesis with an auto-iliac bone graft was performed. Union was determined through radiographs and computed tomography, while the scapholunate angle (SLA) and lateral intrascaphoid angle (LISA) were measured. Clinical outcomes were evaluated by assessing range of motion (ROM) of the wrist, the visual analogue scale (VAS), Mayo wrist score, and disabilities of arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) score. Results: The incidence of distal scaphoid nonunion was 11.8% (9/76), with all patients demonstrating union after the operation. Mean union time was 5 months and mean follow-up period was 23 months. Both SLA and LISA decreased, returning to normal range. The ROM of the wrist joint increased but not statistically significant. The postoperative VAS pain score improved, while grip strength advanced. In addition, both postoperative Mayo wrist and DASH scores document better results than those of pre-operation. Overall, there were two postoperative complication cases of joint motion limitation and pin site irritation. Conclusion: Osteosynthesis with auto-iliac bone graft for nonunion of the distal scaphoid showed good clinical and radiological outcomes. Thus, it is considered a recommendable operation in the treatment of distal scaphoid nonunion.