Ulnar Neuropathy Caused by Muscular Arcade of Struthers

Abstract

Background: There is still debate in the literature on the existence of the arcade of Struthers and moreover the potential role of this structure to cause compression of the ulnar nerve.

Case description: In this article we present a patient with ulnar neuropathy caused by a muscular arcade of Struthers, which was detected preoperatively using ultrasound. Symptoms completely recovered following decompression of the nerve by transection of this muscular arcade.

Conclusions: This case demonstrates that a muscular arcade of Struthers can cause symptoms of ulnar neuropathy. Ultrasound in this case proved to be helpful in the preoperative workup, clearly demonstrating this unusual site of compression.

Keywords: Cubital tunnel syndrome; Decompression; Entrapment; Neuropathy.