Possible points of ulnar nerve entrapment in the arm and forearm: an ultrasound, anatomical, and histological study

Abstract

Background: Ulnar nerve entrapment is one of the most common entrapment neuropathies, usually occurring in the cubital tunnel of the elbow and in Guyon’s canal of the wrist. However, it can also occur at other anatomical locations. Purpose: Our aim was to review other possible locations of ulnar nerve entrapment in an ultrasound and anatomical study. Material and Methods: Eleven upper limbs from eight adult corpses were ultrasonographically examined and subsequently dissected in a dissection laboratory. Four specific anatomical points were analysed, and any anatomical variations were documented. Moreover, six samples of the nerve were taken for histological analysis. Results: Distinct anatomical relationships were observed during ultrasound and dissection between the ulnar nerve and the medial intermuscular septum, the triceps aponeurosis, Osborne’s fascia at the elbow, the arcuate ligament of Osborne and the intermuscular aponeurosis between the flexor carpi ulnaris and the flexor digitorum superficialis muscles. A statistical study showed that these locations are potential areas for ulnar nerve compression. In addition, a fourth head of the triceps brachii muscle was found in some specimens. Conclusion: Results demonstrate that ultrasound is a good tool to investigate ulnar nerve entrapment neuropathy and to identify other anatomical points where the nerve can remain compressed.