Osborne's ligament

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Osborne's ligament is a fibrous band of tissue located in the elbow. It is also known as the arcade of Struthers. This ligament plays a significant role in the anatomy of the elbow and is particularly important in the context of ulnar nerve entrapment.

Anatomy

Osborne's ligament extends from the medial epicondyle of the humerus to the olecranon of the ulna. It forms the roof of the cubital tunnel, a passageway through which the ulnar nerve travels. The cubital tunnel is bordered by the medial epicondyle, the olecranon, and the Osborne's ligament.

Function

The primary function of Osborne's ligament is to protect the ulnar nerve as it passes through the cubital tunnel. It helps to maintain the position of the nerve and prevents it from subluxating or dislocating during elbow movements.

Clinical Significance

Osborne's ligament is clinically significant because it can be a site of ulnar nerve compression, leading to a condition known as cubital tunnel syndrome. This condition is characterized by numbness, tingling, and pain in the forearm and hand, particularly in the ring and little fingers. In severe cases, muscle weakness and atrophy may occur.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Cubital tunnel syndrome is a common peripheral neuropathy that occurs when the ulnar nerve is compressed at the elbow. The compression can be caused by various factors, including repetitive elbow flexion, direct trauma, or anatomical variations such as a thickened Osborne's ligament. Treatment options for cubital tunnel syndrome range from conservative measures, such as splinting and physical therapy, to surgical interventions like ulnar nerve decompression or transposition.

Surgical Considerations

In cases where conservative treatment fails, surgical intervention may be necessary. One common procedure is the release of Osborne's ligament to relieve pressure on the ulnar nerve. This procedure involves cutting the ligament to create more space for the nerve, thereby reducing compression and alleviating symptoms.

See Also

• Ulnar nerve
• Cubital tunnel syndrome
• Elbow anatomy
• Peripheral neuropathy