Cubital tunnel release and medial epicondylectomy: effect of timing of mobilization.

The effects of early versus late range of motion (ROM) following cubital tunnel decompression and medial epicondylectomy were evaluated in a randomized prospective study. Forty-five consecutive procedures were divided into 2 groups. The early mobilization group started rehabilitation at an average of 3 days after surgery and the late mobilization group started rehabilitation at an average of 14 days after surgery. Flexion contracture of more than 5 degrees degrees was observed in 5% of the early mobilization group, compared to 52% of the late mobilization group (p < .001). On average, patients in the early mobilization group returned to work twice as early as those in the late mobilization group and did not experience any adverse effects on their grip strength or other hand functions. Institution of ROM exercises immediately after surgery was found to be more effective in preventing elbow flexion contractures, obtaining a quicker recovery, and allowing return to work with no ill effects.