[Ultrasound detection of dislocation of the ulnar nerve from the sulcus of the elbow joint].

BACKGROUND

Chronic ulnar nerve subluxation out of the sulcus in the elbow region may be a rare reason for undefined chronic disorders in the medial elbow aspect.

METHODS

We report two cases: A 38 years old male patient reports recurrent painful disorders including paresthesia of the 4th and 5th fingers. A 12 years old boy shows a palpable band in the medial elbow region without pain.

RESULTS

In both patients, the ulnar nerve was completely identified, both in transverse and longitudinal planes. Sonomorphology and echogeneity were the same as in the controlateral limb. Ulnar nerve subluxation could be diagnosed in elbow joint flexion, in both cases.

CONCLUSION

Dynamic ultrasonographic examination is able to diagnose and document ulnar nerve subluxation and determine further (surgical) treatment.