Anatomic characteristics of a fascia and its bands overlying the ulnar nerve in the proximal forearm: a cadaver study.

This study describes the characteristics of a fascia overlying the ulnar nerve for 10 cm distal to the midpoint of the retrocondylar groove. A total of 28 cadaver upper extremities were dissected. The ulnar nerve between the flexor carpi ulnaris and flexor digitorum profundus was traced distally underneath a thin fascia. The length of the fascia was measured and examined for the presence of segmental fascial thickenings, referred to as 'Bands'. Two types of fascia were found. In Type I, three Bands were identified within the fascia and the mean length of the fascia was 5.6 cm. In Type II, four Bands were identified and the mean length of the fascia was 7.7 cm. The presence of Bands within the fascia overlying the ulnar nerve in the proximal forearm may require release at the time of decompression, or anterior transposition, of the ulnar nerve at the cubital tunnel.