Cubital tunnel release is a surgical procedure used to treat cubital tunnel syndrome, a condition caused by compression of the ulnar nerve as it passes along the inside of the elbow. Patients typically seek care after experiencing numbness, tingling, or weakness in the ring and little fingers, symptoms that often worsen with elbow bending or prolonged pressure on the elbow. Before surgery is recommended, patients are usually evaluated with a physical exam and may undergo nerve conduction studies or ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis and assess severity. Surgery is generally considered when symptoms persist despite splinting, activity modification, or therapy, or when there is evidence of nerve damage or muscle weakness. The procedure is most often performed as an outpatient surgery under general, regional, or local anesthesia. Through an incision along the inner elbow, the surgeon identifies the ulnar nerve and releases the tight structures compressing it, including the ligament forming the roof of the cubital tunnel. In many cases, this simple decompression is sufficient. If the nerve is unstable or severely compressed, the surgeon may reposition it to the front of the elbow (ulnar nerve transposition) to prevent it from stretching or snapping over the bone during movement. In select cases, a portion of the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow may be removed to further reduce pressure. The goal of each technique is to allow the nerve to move freely and recover. After surgery, patients typically go home the same day with their arm bandaged and sometimes supported in a sling. Pain and swelling are common for the first few days and are managed with elevation and medication. Gentle finger motion is encouraged early, while elbow movement is gradually reintroduced once bulky dressings are removed. Patients with desk-based jobs may return to work within days, while those with physically demanding activities often require several weeks of recovery. Nerve healing occurs slowly, and improvement in sensation and strength may continue for many months. While many patients experience significant symptom relief, recovery depends on how long and how severely the nerve was compressed before surgery, with earlier treatment offering the best chance for full recovery.