Adipose Flap Versus Fascial Sling for Anterior Subcutaneous Transposition of the Ulnar Nerve.

Perineural scarring is a major cause of recurrent symptoms after anterior subcutaneous transposition secured with a fascial sling. Use of a vascularized adipose flap to secure the anteriorly transposed ulnar nerve can help reduce nerve adherence and may enhance nerve recovery. In the study reported here, we retrospectively reviewed the long-term outcomes of ulnar nerve anterior subcutaneous transposition secured with either an adipose flap (16 patients) or a fascial sling (17 patients). The 33 patients underwent physical examinations and completed the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) questionnaire, visual analog scales (VASs), and the Modified Bishop Rating Scale (MBRS). There were no significant differences in DASH (P = .673), VAS pain (P = .413), or VAS weakness (P = .362) scores between the adipose flap and fascial sling groups. Physical examinations revealed no significant differences in flexion-extension arc (P = .668) or supination-pronation arc (P = .226) between the operated and nonoperated extremities. Lateral pinch strength and grip strength were comparable. On the MBRS, excellent and good outcomes were reported by 62.5% and 37.5% of the adipose flap patients, respectively, and 59% and 41% of the fascial sling patients. The contribution of perineural scarring to postoperative recurrent ulnar neuropathy is well documented. We think the pedicled adipofascial flap benefits the peripheral nerve by providing a scar tissue barrier and an optimal milieu for vascular regeneration. For all patients in the present study, symptoms improved, though the adipose flap and fascial sling groups were not significantly different in their objective outcomes. Subjective results were slightly better for the adipose flap patients but not significantly so. These findings indicate that, compared with the current standard of care, adipose flaps are more efficacious in securing the anteriorly transposed nerve.