Thumb Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair Using Suture Anchors and Suture Tape Augmentation.

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Sports Medicine
• Hand Surgery

Background:

• Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the thumb metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint are common, especially in athletes.
• Current gold standard treatment involves suture anchor repair.
• Emerging evidence suggests suture tape augmentation provides greater initial construct strength.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a reproducible surgical technique for UCL thumb repair using suture tape augmentation.
• To evaluate the biomechanical advantages of suture tape augmentation over traditional repair methods.

Main Methods:

• A primary repair of the UCL using 1.3-mm Suturetape.
• Internal bracing with FiberTape secured by dual 3.5-mm SwiveLock anchors.
• MCP joint positioned at 30° flexion during repair for optimal tensioning.

Main Results:

• Suture tape augmentation demonstrated significantly higher maximum load and load at clinical failure compared to repair alone.
• Enhanced resistance to gap formation under cyclic loading was observed.
• The augmented construct supports earlier mobilization and potentially faster return to activity.

Conclusions:

• Suture tape augmentation is a viable and effective technique for UCL thumb repair.
• This method offers superior biomechanical properties, facilitating accelerated rehabilitation.
• The technique enhances joint stability during healing while preserving native proprioception.