If you’ve noticed tingling, numbness, or weakness in your ring and pinky fingers, you might be experiencing cubital tunnel syndrome which is a condition that occurs when the ulnar nerve becomes compressed at the elbow.

Without treatment, this issue can lead to long-term nerve damage. But when caught early, relief is possible, often with a minimally invasive procedure that doesn’t require a hospital stay.

At Prime Surgical Suites in Granite Falls, NC, we provide outpatient surgical support for patients referred by their orthopedic or hand specialists. If you’ve been told that surgery might be next, here’s what you should know.

What Is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?

Cubital tunnel syndrome is a type of ulnar nerve entrapment that usually occurs at the elbow. The ulnar nerve, which runs from the neck down to the hand, can become compressed where it passes through the cubital tunnel—a narrow space inside the elbow.

Causes often include:

• Repetitive bending of the elbow (e.g., typing, lifting, or leaning)
• Long periods of elbow pressure (like resting on hard surfaces)
• Prior injury or natural narrowing of the tunnel

Symptoms may include:

• Numbness or tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
• Weak grip or hand fatigue
• Pain that worsens when the elbow is bent for long periods

Get an overview of cubital tunnel syndrome from Cleveland Clinic.

When Surgery Becomes the Best Option

Mild symptoms may improve with rest, bracing, anti-inflammatory medication, or physical therapy. But when these conservative options fail, your physician may recommend surgery.

Surgery may be the right next step if:

• Symptoms have persisted longer than 6 weeks
• Nerve conduction studies show significant compression
• You’ve experienced muscle weakness, hand clumsiness, or loss of dexterity

There are two main surgical techniques:

• Ulnar nerve decompression, which relieves pressure without moving the nerve
• Ulnar nerve transposition, which repositions the nerve to prevent further irritation

Read more from the medical comparison of decompression vs. transposition via the National Library of Medicine.

Why Outpatient Surgery May Be Right for You

Most cubital tunnel release procedures take less than an hour and can be completed in a licensed outpatient setting.

At Prime Surgical Suites:

• Procedures are done in a private, accredited surgical suite
• You’ll receive light general or local anesthesia
• You’ll return home the same day with full discharge instructions

Outpatient care is ideal for patients who want efficiency, privacy, and minimal disruption to their lives.

Learn more about outpatient hand and wrist procedures at Prime Surgical Suites.

Benefits of Outpatient Care for Nerve Procedures

Choosing an outpatient facility like Prime Surgical offers:

• No overnight hospital stay
• Streamlined check-in, surgery, and discharge—all in one place
• Reduced risk of hospital-acquired infections
• A quieter, more comfortable setting designed for same-day care
• Focused anesthesia and recovery support from a small, specialized team

Learn more about our facility and why it may be the perfect place for your outpatient procedure.

What to Expect After Surgery

Most patients recover quickly after cubital tunnel surgery. Here’s a general timeline:

• Mild soreness or swelling at the incision site is common for a few days
• Most patients return to light activity within a week
• Full grip strength and sensation gradually return over several weeks
• Physical therapy may be recommended for optimal strength and function

Learn more about outpatient hand surgery in this other blog post.

FAQs About Cubital Tunnel Surgery at Prime

Can I come to Prime without a referral?

No. Prime only accepts referrals from licensed providers or orthopedic specialists. We are not a walk-in clinic or primary care office.

Who performs the surgery?

Your own referring hand or orthopedic surgeon will perform the procedure in our licensed surgical suite.

Will I need someone to drive me home?

Yes. All patients undergoing outpatient surgery must have an escort to drive them home after the procedure.

Relief Might Be Closer Than You Think

If tingling, weakness, or elbow discomfort is interfering with your life, don’t wait. Cubital tunnel syndrome can be treated successfully—especially when addressed early.

At Prime Surgical Suites, we work with board-certified surgeons to provide safe, comfortable, and efficient outpatient care for patients in Granite Falls, NC, and the surrounding region.

Ask your provider if a referral for surgery at Prime Surgical Suites is the right next step for your cubital tunnel treatment.