Ulnar neuropathy at the wrist in a patient with carpal tunnel syndrome after open carpal tunnel release

Abstract

Ulnar neuropathy at the wrist is rarely reported as complications of carpal tunnel release. Since it can sometimes be confused with recurrent median neuropathy at the wrist or ulnar neuropathy at the elbow, an electrodiagnostic study is useful for detecting the lesion in detail. We present a case of a 51-year-old woman with a two-week history of right ulnar palm and 5th digit tingling sensation that began 3 months after open carpal tunnel release surgery of the right hand. Electrodiagnostic tests such as segmental nerve conduction studies of the ulnar nerve at the wrist were useful for localization of the lesion, and ultrasonography helped to confi rm the presence of the lesion. After conservative management, patient symptoms were progressively relieved. Combined electrodiagnostic studies and ultrasonography may be helpful for diagnosing and detecting ulnar neuropathies of the wrist following carpal tunnel release surgery. © 2012 by Korean Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine.