A demographic analysis of cubital tunnel syndrome

Abstract

Cubital tunnel syndrome (CUTS) is usually considered one entity. We suggest that CUTS is not homogeneous, and that patient presentation depends on age.A retrospective review of patients with CUTS was performed. Demographic information and characteristics of presentation were recorded. Logistic regression analysis evaluated the relationship between age and factors of CUTS presentation.Seventy-four patients were included. Average age was 55 (+/-12.5). A statistically significant relationship between age at presentation and interosseous muscle weakness P = 0.01 and muscle atrophy on presentation (P = 0015) was found. There was a trend towards an inverse relationship between age and signs of ulnar irritation such as a positive elbow flexion test.CUTS is typically evaluated as a homogenous pathology. Our results support a condition that presents differently in patients, correlating with age. This concept may be used for evaluation of the treatment approach for CUTS, since different pathologies may require different forms of treatment.