Does a hand surgery perform cubital tunnel release?

Short answer
A hand surgeon can perform cubital tunnel release to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve as it passes behind the elbow.
This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.
At a glance
- Nerve involved
- Ulnar nerve
- Common location
- Inner side of the elbow
What the operation addresses
The cubital tunnel lies on the inner side of the elbow, where the ulnar nerve can become irritated or compressed. Symptoms may include tingling in the ring and little fingers, aching at the elbow, reduced grip, or hand muscle wasting. Cubital tunnel release opens the tight covering around the nerve. In some cases, the surgeon moves the nerve to a new position in front of the elbow; this is called ulnar nerve transposition. The choice depends on nerve stability, anatomy, previous injury, and examination findings.
How to prepare for assessment
Note whether symptoms worsen when the elbow is bent, during sleep, or with leaning on the elbow. Tell the surgeon about neck symptoms, previous elbow trauma, diabetes, thyroid problems, and work activities involving repeated bending. Nerve studies may help locate compression. Discuss nighttime positioning, avoiding prolonged elbow pressure, therapy, and the expected role of surgery before choosing a procedure.
When to seek urgent care
Arrange prompt assessment for worsening grip, visible wasting of hand muscles, persistent numbness, or difficulty coordinating the fingers. After surgery, seek advice for increasing redness, drainage, fever, severe swelling, or a hand that becomes unusually cold or discoloured. Sudden loss of arm movement or sensation after an injury needs emergency evaluation.
Questions for the surgeon
Where is my ulnar nerve being compressed? Do I need nerve-conduction testing? Would release alone or transposition better fit my anatomy? What elbow movements should I limit, and when can I resume work or sport?
Find care
General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi
That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.
27 Ar Ruwwad St - Shakhbout City - MSH4 - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, MetLife +20 more
Al Ruwais, Al Dhafrah
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +16 more
Al Bahyah - Al Bahyah Old - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, Cigna, Allianz Care +18 more
Abu Dhabi
Accepts: Daman, Thiqa, AXA, Cigna +27 more
Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.
A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.
Questions people ask
Can a hand surgeon perform cubital tunnel release?
Yes. A hand surgeon can assess ulnar nerve compression and perform release or transposition when indicated.
Is cubital tunnel release the same as carpal tunnel release?
No. Cubital tunnel surgery addresses the ulnar nerve at the elbow, while carpal tunnel surgery addresses the median nerve at the wrist.
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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.