Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair With Suture Tape Augmentation

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Anatomy

Background:

• The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is crucial for medial elbow stability, especially in overhead athletes.
• High-grade UCL injuries, common in baseball players, often necessitate surgical intervention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the technique of UCL repair with suture tape augmentation.
• To evaluate the efficacy of this technique in achieving a rapid return to sports (RTS).

Main Methods:

• A surgical technique involving a 5-cm incision, dissection to the flexor pronator fascia, and identification of the sublime tubercle.
• Repair of the anterior bundle of the UCL using an ulnar anchor and suture tapes, followed by humeral anchor placement.
• Confirmation of an isometric construct by assessing elbow range of motion post-repair.

Main Results:

• The patient achieved a full, pain-free range of motion post-surgery.
• A rapid return to sports (RTS) was observed in the patient.
• Current data suggest higher RTS rates with UCL repair plus suture tape augmentation compared to reconstruction.

Conclusions:

• UCL repair with suture tape augmentation is a viable surgical option for younger athletes with UCL avulsion and good ligament quality.
• This technique facilitates a fast RTS and favorable outcomes.
• For older patients or those with poorer ligament quality, UCL reconstruction or hybrid techniques should be considered.