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Public perceptions of Tommy John surgery.
Christopher S Ahmad1, W Jeffrey Grantham, R Michael Greiwe
1Center for Shoulder, Elbow, and Sports Medicine, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Columbia University, NY 10032, USA. csa4@columbia.edu
The Physician and Sportsmedicine
|July 5, 2012
Summary
Public understanding of Tommy John surgery is often incorrect. Many players, coaches, and parents have misconceptions about its indications, risks, and recovery, highlighting a need for better education on elbow ulnar collateral ligament injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Sports medicine
- Public health
Background:
- Elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, is increasingly performed.
- This procedure is prevalent in sports, particularly baseball.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate public perception of Tommy John surgery.
- To assess understanding of indications, operative technique, risks, recovery time, and benefits.
- To identify potential misperceptions among players, coaches, and parents.
Main Methods:
- A questionnaire was developed to gauge perceptions of Tommy John surgery.
- Data collected through interviews and mailings from 189 players, 15 coaches, and 31 parents.
- Statistical analysis performed on collected data.
Main Results:
- Significant percentages believed surgery could enhance performance without injury.
- Misconceptions about risk factors like pitch count and type were prevalent.
- Underestimations of return-to-play timelines were common, with many expecting recovery in under nine months.
Conclusions:
- This study reveals widespread public misperceptions regarding Tommy John surgery.
- There is a critical need for improved community education on elbow ulnar collateral ligament injuries in young athletes.
- Addressing these misconceptions is vital for informed decision-making and athlete safety.