Posterior olecranon resection and ulnar collateral ligament strain

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Valgus extension overload is a common issue in throwing athletes.
• Surgical treatment typically involves resecting posterior olecranon osteophytes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the amount of posterior olecranon resection that increases stress on the ulnar collateral ligament.
• To investigate the impact of elbow flexion angle on ulnar collateral ligament strain after olecranon resection.

Main Methods:

• Ten cadaveric arms underwent posterior olecranon resection in 4-mm increments.
• Valgus loads were applied at 70 and 90 degrees of elbow flexion after each resection.
• Ulnar collateral ligament strain was measured under applied loads.

Main Results:

• Ulnar collateral ligament strain increased significantly with each valgus load.
• Greater strain was observed at 90 degrees of flexion compared to 70 degrees.
• Strain was slightly higher after 8-mm and 12-mm resections, but not statistically significant.

Conclusions:

• Posterior olecranon resection up to 12 mm does not significantly increase ulnar collateral ligament strain under moderate valgus loads.
• Elbow flexion angle influences ulnar collateral ligament strain, with higher strain at 90 degrees.
• Findings suggest a potential safety margin for olecranon resection in managing valgus extension overload.