Welcome to the website of Dr. Venkata Bodavula MD, FACS. Dr. Bodavula is a Board Certified Physician and Fellowship trained in hand surgery.
We are one of the busiest hand surgery practices in St. Charles County, St. Louis County and Lincoln County area. Dr. Bodavula has many years experience providing top notch hand surgery. He was voted Best Hand Surgeon in Missouri in 2019.
We are currently accepting new patients and accept most insurance plans.
Phone 636-373-9882
Fax 866-283-3416
Text 636-362-4323
drhand2014@gmail.com
Dr. Venkata Bodavula M.D.FACS
Office Locations
St. Charles County Office
5600 Mexico Road
Suite 21
St. Peters, MO 63376
West County Office
555 N. New Ballas Road
Suite 175
Creve Coeur, MO 63141
DePaul Office
3394 McKelvey Road
Suite 115
Bridgeton, MO 63044
Lincoln County Office
1004 E. Cherry Street
Troy, MO 63379
CARPAL TUNNEL SURGERY ENDOSCOPIC TECHNIQUE - PERFORMED BY DR BODAVULA
Common Conditions treated by Dr Bodavula- Hand Specialist.
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
TRIGGER FINGER
GANGLION CYST
HAND INJURIES - CUTS
HAND AND WRIST BROKEN BONES (FRACTURES)
ARTHRITIS OF JOINTS IN THE FINGERS ,HAND AND WRIST
TENDON INJURIES
WORKERS COMPENSATION INJURIES
NAIL INJURIES, INFECTIONS AND DEFORMITIES
MUCINOUS CYST OF DIP JOINT
INJURIES IN CHILDREN
DUPUYTREN CONTRACTURE
SPORTS INJURIES
Endoscopic Cubital tunnel performed by Dr Venkata Bodavula MD, Hand Surgeon , St Louis
Cubital tunnel syndrome is the second most common peripheral nerve entrapment syndrome, often resulting in intense elbow pain, difficulty with range of motion, and numbness or tingling of the ring and little fingers1. For those suffering from this condition, endoscopic cubital tunnel surgery, also known as ECuTR (Endoscopic Cubital Tunnel Release), offers a minimally invasive solution to relieve symptoms and restore function.
What is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome?
Before delving into the surgical procedure, it’s essential to understand the condition it aims to treat. Cubital tunnel syndrome occurs when the ulnar nerve, which passes through the cubital tunnel in the elbow, becomes compressed. This compression can lead to pain, weakness, and sensory changes in the hand and forearm1.If left untreated it results in severe damage and wasting of small muscles in hand with loss of function, which may not recover fully in future.
The Endoscopic Approach
Endoscopic cubital tunnel release is a cutting-edge technique that involves decompressing the ulnar nerve at the elbow. The procedure is performed through a small incision, using an endoscope equipped with a camera to visualize the nerve and surrounding structures. The goal is to relieve pressure on the nerve while minimizing tissue disruption, leading to a quicker recovery compared to traditional open surgery.
The surgery is conducted at an Outpatient Surgery Center and typically takes between 15 to 20 minutes. The dressing is removed the following day, after which only a band-aid is necessary. Patients can immediately use their hand for light duties and are able to drive.
Benefits of Endoscopic Cubital Tunnel release
The endoscopic method offers several advantages over open decompression surgery:
Minimally Invasive: A smaller incision means less scarring and a lower risk of infection.
Rapid Recovery: Patients typically return to work almost next day with light duty and regain full function within four to six weeks.
High Success Rate: Studies report good to excellent outcomes in 80% to 94% of cases.
Risks and Considerations
While ECuTR is generally safe, some patients may experience pain, numbness, or swelling post-surgery. Severe complications are rare but can include nerve dislocation, infection, and blood collection outside the vessels2.
Dr. Venkata Bodavula MD is an experienced and fellowship trained Hand Surgeon based in St. Louis, Missouri, renowned for his expertise in endoscopic surgery. As one of the few surgeons in the country specializing in this minimally invasive technique, Dr. Bodavula has become a beacon of hope for patients suffering from conditions like cubital tunnel syndrome. His practice, which extends across St. Charles County, St. Louis County, and Lincoln County, offers a cutting-edge approach to hand surgery, providing patients with a less invasive option that promotes quicker recovery times and reduced postoperative discomfort. Voted as the Best Hand Surgeon in Missouri in 2019, Dr. Bodavula’s commitment to excellence and patient care has solidified his reputation as a leader in the field of endoscopic hand surgery.
If You have Cubital or carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosed and are planning for Open surgery, please reach out to our office to discuss befits of endoscopic surgery.
Phone - 636-373-9882
Four convenient locations in St Louis, St Charles and Lincoln County Missouri.