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Accuracy of MRI to Detect Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Tears
Austin Murphy1, Tyler Brolin1, David Bernholt1
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Biomedical Engineering, University of Tennessee Health Science Center - Campbell Clinic, Memphis, Tennessee.
Journal of Surgical Orthopaedic Advances
|December 11, 2025
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) accurately detects lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) tears. This study confirms MRI
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) tears are common elbow injuries.
- Accurate diagnosis of LUCL tears is crucial for effective treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detecting lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) tears.
- To compare MRI findings with intra-operative confirmations.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study involving 59 patients.
- Blinded review of preoperative MRIs by two shoulder and elbow surgeons.
- Comparison of MRI interpretations with operative reports.
Main Results:
- Combined consensus MRI sensitivity was 100% and specificity was 95.8% for LUCL tears.
- Overall accuracy of MRI in detecting LUCL tears was 96.6%.
- Moderate inter-observer reliability (k = 0.54) was observed among surgeons.
Conclusions:
- MRI demonstrates high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity in diagnosing LUCL tears.
- Despite moderate inter-observer agreement, MRI is a reliable tool for LUCL tear detection.
- High negative predictive value (100%) indicates MRI's strength in ruling out tears.
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