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EXTRINSIC ETIOLOGIES OF ULNAR NERVE INJURY AT THE CUBITAL TUNNEL ILLUSTRATED BY MRI CASES AND LITTERATURE REVIEW
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Abstract
Background: Ulnar nerve entrapment at the elbow is the second most common upper limb neuropathy after carpal tunnel syndrome. MRI plays a pivotal role in evaluating the causes of entrapment. Case series: This study retrospectively reviews MRI findings in patients with ulnar neuropathy, presenting a variety of causes, including accessory muscles, osteophytes, synovitis, post-traumatic deformities, ligamentous thickening, and idiopathic/ activity-related cases without visible compressive causes. Four representative cases illustrate the clinical and imaging characteristics of each etiology, emphasizing the importance of recognizing both common and unusual causes of compression. MRI findings, such as increased signal intensity and morphological changes in the ulnar nerve, are essential for diagnosis and management. Even in cases without clear compressive pathology, MRI may reveal indirect signs of neuritis or repetitive stress injury. Conclusions: This case-based review highlights the diagnostic value of MRI in identifying diverse causes of ulnar nerve entrapment and underscores the importance of correlating imaging with clinical presentation to guide management strategies.
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Keywords
Ulnar nerve MRI, elbow valgus, cubital tunnel syndrome, ulnar neuropathy.
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