To analyze the prevalence of variations, branching patterns, and histology of the ulnar nerve (UN) in Guyon’s canal to address its importance in hand surgery, particularly decompression of the UN.

Materials and Methods:

50 fresh cadavers were dissected bilaterally, and the nerve in the area of Guyon’s canal was visualized. Samples for histology were also taken and prepared. The collected data were then analyzed.

Results:

Morphometric measurements of the hands and histological studies were not found to have significant differences when compared by left or right side or by sex. Three major branching patterns were found, with division into deep and superficial UN being the most common (85%). Additional findings included a majority (70%) presenting with a cutaneous branch within the canal and/or with an anastomosis of its distant branches with those of the median nerve (57%).