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Buchanan TR, Hones KM, Hao KA, Kamarajugadda S, Portnoff B, Wright JO, King JJ, Wright TW, Kim J, Schoch BS, Roach RP, Aibinder WR. Rehabilitation Protocols in Elbow Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries: A Systematic Review of Articles Published in the Last 20 Years. Sports Health 2024:19417381241249125. [PMID: 38702939 DOI: 10.1177/19417381241249125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2024] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Elbow medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries have become increasingly common in athletes. Despite this, rehabilitation protocols appear to vary drastically, which may explain the clinical equipoise regarding optimal management. OBJECTIVE This systematic review reports rehabilitation characteristics reported after UCL injuries and compares reported outcomes based on early versus delayed rehabilitation. DATA SOURCES Our search utilized PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane to identify all articles on UCL rehabilitation published between January 1, 2002 and October 1, 2022. STUDY SELECTION Studies in English with ≥5 patients that reported rehabilitation protocols for UCL injuries were evaluated. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level 4. DATA EXTRACTION Data included sample characteristics, time to achieve physical therapy milestones, outcome scores, and return-to-play (RTP) rate and timing. RESULTS Our review included 105 articles with a total of 15,928 elbows (98% male; weighted mean age, 23 years; follow-up, 47 months), with 15,077 treated operatively and 851 treated nonoperatively. The weighted mean time patients spent adhering to nonweightbearing status was 42 days. The mean time until patients were given clearance for active range of motion (ROM) 15 days, full ROM 40 days, and elbow strengthening exercises 32 days. The mean time until all restrictions were lifted was 309 days. The mean time to begin a throwing program was 120 days. Across all rehabilitation characteristics, protocols for patients undergoing nonoperative management started patients on rehabilitation earlier. After UCL reconstruction, earlier active ROM (≤14 days), elbow strengthening (≤30 days), no restrictions (≤180 days), and throwing (≤120 days) postoperatively led to earlier RTP without a negative effect on functional outcome scores. CONCLUSION Current literature provides a spectrum of protocols for elbow UCL rehabilitation, regardless of management. Nonoperative patients began ROM activities, strengthening, and throwing programs sooner than operative patients, and earlier milestones led to earlier RTP.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Keegan M Hones
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Kevin A Hao
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | | | - Brandon Portnoff
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island
| | - Jonathan O Wright
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Joseph J King
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Thomas W Wright
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Jongmin Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - Bradley S Schoch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - Ryan P Roach
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
| | - William R Aibinder
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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2
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Hones KM, Simcox T, Hao KA, Portnoff B, Buchanan TR, Kamarajugadda S, Kim J, Wright JO, King JJ, Wright TW, Schoch BS, Aibinder WR. Graft choice and techniques used in elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction over the last 20 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2024; 33:1185-1199. [PMID: 38072032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2023.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2023] [Revised: 10/13/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Elbow medial ulnar collateral ligament (mUCL) injuries have become increasingly common, leading to a higher number of mUCL reconstructions (UCLR). Various techniques and graft choices have been reported. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of each available graft choice, the surgical techniques most utilized, and the reported complications associated with each surgical method. METHODS A systematic review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysesguidelines. We queried PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases to identify all articles that included UCLR between January 2002 and October 2022. We included all studies that referenced UCLR graft choice, surgical technique, and/or ulnar nerve transposition. Studies were evaluated in a narrative fashion to assess demographics and report current trends in utilization and complications of UCLR as they pertain to graft choice and surgical techniques over the past 20 years. Where possible, we stratified based on graft and technique. RESULTS Forty-seven articles were included, reporting on 6671 elbows. The cohort was 98% male, had a weighted mean age of 21 years and follow-up of 53 months. There were 6146 UCLRs (92%) performed with an autograft and 152 (2.3%) that utilized an allograft, while 373 (5.6%) were from mixed cohorts of autograft and allograft. Palmaris longus autograft was the most utilized mUCL graft choice (64%). The most utilized surgical configuration was the figure-of-8 (68%). Specifically, the most common techniques were the modified Jobe technique (37%), followed by American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI) (22%), and the docking (22%) technique. A concomitant ulnar nerve transposition was performed in 44% of all patients, with 1.9% of these patients experiencing persistent ulnar nerve symptoms after ulnar nerve transposition. Of the total cohort, 14% experienced postoperative ulnar neuritis with no prior preoperative ulnar nerve symptoms. Further, meta-analysis revealed a significantly greater revision rate with the use of allografts compared to autograft and mixed cohorts (2.6% vs. 1.8% and 1.9%, P = .003). CONCLUSIONS Most surgeons performed UCLR with palmaris autograft utilizing a figure-of-8 graft configuration, specifically with the modified Jobe technique. The overall rate of allograft use was 2.3%, much lower than expected. The revision rate for UCLR with allograft appears to be greater compared to UCLR with autograft, although this may be secondary to limited allograft literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Keegan M Hones
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Trevor Simcox
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, NYU Long Island School of Medicine, Mineola, NY, USA
| | - Kevin A Hao
- College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Brandon Portnoff
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Brown University, Providence, RI, USA
| | | | | | - Jongmin Kim
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Jonathan O Wright
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Joseph J King
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Thomas W Wright
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Bradley S Schoch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA
| | - William R Aibinder
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.
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3
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Peebles LA, Blackwood NO, Verma A, O'Brien MJ, Lintner DM, Kraeutler MJ. Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction With Allograft Provides Excellent Clinical Outcomes, High Rates of Return to Play, and a Low Incidence of Postoperative Complications: A Systematic Review. Arthroscopy 2024:S0749-8063(24)00268-8. [PMID: 38593928 DOI: 10.1016/j.arthro.2024.03.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To perform a systematic review evaluating clinical outcomes in patients undergoing medial ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (MUCLR) with soft-tissue allograft. METHODS A systematic review of the literature was performed according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The primary outcomes evaluated were patient-reported outcome scores, return to play (RTP) rates, incidence of postoperative complications, and rates of graft rupture or mechanical failure. RESULTS The literature search identified 395 articles, and 5 studies met final inclusion criteria after full-text review. A total of 274 patients were analyzed in the included studies and follow-up ranged from 3.0 to 7.6 years. Two studies (number of patients = 141) reported outcomes exclusively of MUCLR with allograft, whereas 3 studies (number of patients = 133) reported outcomes in patients undergoing MUCLR with either allograft or autograft. Allograft sources included gracilis, semitendinosus, plantaris, peroneus longus, and palmaris longus. Level of patient athletic competition ranged from recreational athletes to the professional level; however, nonathletes in the setting of trauma were also included. The RTP rate after MUCLR with soft-tissue allograft was 95.3%, and 89.3% of patients returned to a similar or greater level of play postoperatively. The Timmerman-Andrews score was reported in 2 studies, and the means postoperatively ranged from 94.55 to 97. Postoperative complication rates were low (range, 0% to 20%), and there were no reported incidences of allograft rupture or mechanical failure. CONCLUSIONS Based on the available data, soft-tissue allograft for MUCLR in athletic patient populations provides excellent clinical outcomes, high rates of RTP, and low rates of postoperative complications and graft failure at short-term follow-up. There remains a lack of high-quality evidence directly comparing autograft versus allograft outcomes in elite overhead-throwing athletes to support allograft as an acceptable alternative for MUCLR in this patient population. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, systematic review of Level III-IV studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liam A Peebles
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A..
| | | | - Arjun Verma
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A
| | - Michael J O'Brien
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.A
| | - David M Lintner
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas, U.S.A
| | - Matthew J Kraeutler
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado, U.S.A
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4
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Brumbaugh AD, Casagranda BU. Postoperative Return to Play and the Role of Imaging. Semin Musculoskelet Radiol 2024; 28:165-179. [PMID: 38484769 DOI: 10.1055/s-0043-1778024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Return to play (RTP) following surgery is a complex subject at the interface of social and internal pressures experienced by the athlete, psychological readiness, and intrinsic healing of the surgically repaired structures. Although functional testing, time from surgery, clinical examination, and scoring metrics can help clarify an athlete's readiness to return to sport, imaging can allow for a more direct assessment of the structures in question. Because imaging is often included in the diagnostic work-up of pain following surgery, the radiologist must be familiar with the expected postsurgical imaging appearance, as well as the associated complications. We briefly review such findings following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, Achilles tendon repair, syndesmotic fixation, and ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction in the context of the athlete, highlighting issues related to RTP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aaron D Brumbaugh
- Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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5
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Hanna AJ, Sonnier JH, Fliegel BE, Erickson BJ, Jack RA, Cohen SB. Dynamic Stress Ultrasound Assessment of Professional Baseball Players' Elbows After Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction. Am J Sports Med 2024; 52:1053-1059. [PMID: 38353117 DOI: 10.1177/03635465241227436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a paucity of data analyzing dynamic stress ultrasound (SUS) findings in elite pitchers who have undergone ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction (UCLR) and returned to sport. PURPOSE To identify longitudinal, perioperative changes in the elbows of professional baseball pitchers who have undergone UCLR and to compare these findings with a matched cohort of healthy pitchers. STUDY DESIGN Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3. METHODS This study used prospectively collected data from dynamic elbow SUS analyses of professional baseball pitchers within a single Major League Baseball organization. Pitchers were divided into 2 cohorts: a UCLR cohort and healthy cohort. The UCLR cohort eligibility included availability of (1) SUS from preseason of injury/UCLR and (2) SUS from ≥2 years after surgery. These players were 1:1 matched to players with no history of upper extremity injury to form the healthy cohort. Ligament thickness and ulnohumeral joint space at rest and under stress were directly measured. Joint laxity was calculated by subtracting joint space at rest from joint space under stress. The term "relative" was used to describe calculated differences where nondominant measurements were subtracted from dominant-side measurements. RESULTS Eight pitchers were included in the UCLR group and matched to 8 healthy pitchers (mean age at initial SUS examination, 19.6 years). At a minimum follow-up of 2 years, there were no significant differences between groups in terms of relative or dominant arm rest space, stress space, or laxity. Longitudinally (final measurements - baseline measurements), the mean relative ulnohumeral rest space decreased in the UCLR group and increased in the healthy group (-0.36 mm vs +0.50 mm; P = .032). The finding of increased UCL thickness in the UCLR group was expected, as UCL grafts are typically thicker than native ligaments. CONCLUSION Ulnhohumeral joint stability was achieved after UCLR as indicated by similar rest space, stress space, and joint laxity in dominant arms compared with a matched healthy cohort. A significant decrease in relative rest space after UCLR may represent the achievement of stability in surgery patients. Alternatively, the increase in ulnohumeral rest space seen in the healthy cohort may represent adaptive changes from pitching at a professional level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeeb Jacob Hanna
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
- Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Brian E Fliegel
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Jefferson Health New Jersey, Stratford, New Jersey, USA
| | | | - Robert A Jack
- Houston Methodist Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Steven B Cohen
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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6
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Kemler BR, Rao S, Willier DP, Jack RA, Erickson BJ, Cohen SB, Ciccotti MG. Rehabilitation and Return to Sport Criteria Following Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review. Am J Sports Med 2022; 50:3112-3120. [PMID: 34494905 DOI: 10.1177/03635465211033994] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction (UCLR) is a viable treatment option for patients with UCL insufficiency, especially in the overhead throwing athlete. Within the clinical literature, there is still no universally agreed upon optimal rehabilitation protocol and timing for return to sport (RTS) after UCLR. HYPOTHESIS There will be significant heterogeneity with respect to RTS criteria after UCLR. Most surgeons will utilize time-based criteria rather than functional or performance-based criteria for RTS after UCLR. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS All level 1 to 4 studies that evaluated UCLR with a minimum 1-year follow-up were eligible for inclusion. Studies lacking explicit RTS criteria, studies that treated UCL injury nonoperatively or by UCL repair, or studies reporting revision UCLR were excluded. Each study was analyzed for methodologic quality, RTS, timeline of RTS, and RTS rate. RESULTS Overall, 1346 studies were identified, 33 of which met the inclusion criteria. These included 3480 athletes across 21 different sports. All studies reported RTS rates either as overall rates or via the Conway-Jobe scale. Timelines for RTS ranged from 6.5 to 16 months. Early bracing with progressive range of motion (ROM) (93.9%), strengthening (84.8%), and participation in an interval throwing program (81.8%) were the most common parameters emphasized in these rehabilitation protocols. While all studies included at least 1 of 3 metrics for the RTS value assessment, most commonly postoperative rehabilitation (96.97%) and set timing after surgery (96.97%), no article completely defined RTS criteria after UCLR. CONCLUSION Overall, 93.9% of studies report utilizing bracing with progressive ROM, 84.8% reported strengthening, and 81.8% reported participation in an interval throwing program as rehabilitation parameters after UCLR. In addition, 96.97% reported timing after surgery as a criterion for RTS; however, there is a wide variability within the literature on the recommended time from surgery to return to activity. Future research should focus on developing a comprehensive checklist of functional and performance-based criteria for safe RTS after UCLR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryson R Kemler
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Somnath Rao
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Donald P Willier
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Robert A Jack
- Houston Methodist Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Steven B Cohen
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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7
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Kissenberth MJ, Thigpen CA, Bailey LB, Campbell J, Geist DJ, Schweppe ML, Wyland DJ, Hawkins RJ, Noonan TJ, Shanley E. Professional Pitchers Display Differences in UCL Morphology and Elbow Gapping During Moving Valgus Stress Testing After UCL Reconstruction. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211035734. [PMID: 34746324 PMCID: PMC8564131 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211035734] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction (UCLR) of the elbow has
received much attention given the rise in incidence among baseball pitchers.
Stress ultrasonography has been demonstrated to be a critical evaluation
tool of the UCL. No study has dynamically evaluated the ability of UCLR to
restore normal kinematics. Purpose/Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to compare ulnohumeral gapping during a moving
valgus stress test as well as UCL thickness between professional pitchers
with and without UCLR. We hypothesized that the ulnohumeral joint will
display greater gapping and the UCL graft will be thicker in pitchers after
UCLR compared with uninjured pitchers. Study Design: Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: Ultrasonography was used to measure the medial ulnohumeral joint distance and
the UCL thickness of 70 asymptomatic professional baseball pitchers; 6 of
the participants had a history of UCLR. Images were captured of the dominant
(D) and nondominant (ND) elbows at the maximal cocking position under 2
loaded conditions within the moving valgus stress test arc: (1) gravity
stress and (2) 2.5 kg (5.5 lb) of valgus force using a dynamometer. Intra-
and interrater reliability of the measurements was established with
intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs). Separate mixed-model analyses of
variance (D side × UCL) were used to compare the D and ND elbow variables
between pitchers with and without a history of UCLR. Results: All measurements displayed good reliability according to ICCs. Pitchers with
a history of UCLR demonstrated less gapping (5.6 ± 2.9 vs 4.2 ± 1.2 mm;
P = .002) and greater UCL graft thickness (0.17 ± 0.07
vs 0.11 ± 0.08 mm; P = .03) compared with the native
ligament in pitchers without prior UCL injury. Conclusion: Our data demonstrated that the UCLR results in a thicker, stiffer construct
with less medial elbow gapping than the anatomical UCL. Using ultrasound to
evaluate the UCL was a reliable, efficient, and clinically feasible method
to assess UCL thickness and joint gapping in players with a history of UCLR.
Future studies may consider this approach to evaluate surgical techniques
and graft types for UCLR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael J Kissenberth
- Prisma Health Steadman Hawkins Clinic of the Carolinas, Greenville, South Carolina, USA.,Hawkins Foundation, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Charles A Thigpen
- Hawkins Foundation, Greenville, South Carolina, USA.,ATI Physical Therapy, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Joel Campbell
- Prisma Health Steadman Hawkins Clinic of the Carolinas, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | - Derik J Geist
- West Virginia University Medicine, Morgantown, West Virginia, USA
| | | | - Douglas J Wyland
- Prisma Health Steadman Hawkins Clinic of the Carolinas, Greenville, South Carolina, USA.,Hawkins Foundation, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
| | | | - Thomas J Noonan
- Steadman Hawkins Clinic Denver, Greenwood Village, Colorado, USA
| | - Ellen Shanley
- Hawkins Foundation, Greenville, South Carolina, USA.,ATI Physical Therapy, Greenville, South Carolina, USA
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8
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Dixit A, Dandu N, Hadley CJ, Nazarian LN, Cohen SB, Ciccotti M. Ultrasonographic Technique, Appearance, and Diagnostic Accuracy for Common Elbow Sports Injuries. JBJS Rev 2020; 8:e19.00219. [PMID: 33186208 DOI: 10.2106/jbjs.rvw.19.00219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Abstract
Ultrasonography is a valuable diagnostic imaging tool because of its availability, tolerability, low cost, and utility in real-time dynamic evaluation. Its use in diagnosing elbow injuries has expanded recently and continues to do so. In particular, stress ultrasonography represents a unique imaging technique that directly visualizes the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and allows the assessment of ligament laxity, offering an advantage over magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance arthrography in this patient population. Furthermore, ultrasonography has shown particular usefulness in instances where invasive techniques might be less desirable. This is particularly important in athletes since more invasive procedures potentially result in lost time from their sport. Ultrasonography is an important imaging tool that complements a thorough history and physical examination in the evaluation of elbow injuries in athletes. The use of ultrasonography in orthopaedic sports medicine has been investigated previously; however, to our knowledge, there has been no comprehensive review regarding the utility of ultrasonography for common elbow injuries in athletes. The current study provides a comprehensive, detailed review of the utility and indications for the use of ultrasonography for common elbow injuries in athletes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anant Dixit
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Pasadena, California
| | - Navya Dandu
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Christopher J Hadley
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Levon N Nazarian
- Thomas Jefferson University Hospital at Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Steven B Cohen
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Michael Ciccotti
- Rothman Orthopaedic Institute at Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
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9
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Molenaars RJ, Schoolmeesters BJA, Viveen J, The B, Eygendaal D. There is a role for allografts in reconstructive surgery of the elbow and forearm. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc 2019; 27:1840-1846. [PMID: 30341449 DOI: 10.1007/s00167-018-5221-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Allografts play an important role in tendon, ligament, and bone reconstruction surgery, particularly when suitable available autologous tissue is limited. Enthusiasm for the use of allografts in reconstructive orthopedic surgery has increased over the past decade, with an increase in allograft use in a variety of procedures. The purpose of this review is to provide an overview of the various applications and indications for the use of allografts in reconstructive surgical procedures of the elbow and forearm. METHODS MEDLINE/PubMed was searched from 1990 through October 2018 for studies on tendon and bony allografts in elbow and forearm reconstructive surgery. RESULTS The Achilles tendon allograft is the most frequently used tendinous allograft, predominantly used in distal biceps and triceps reconstruction. Although reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow is generally performed using autografts, it has been shown that semitendinosus and gracilis allografts may be equally effective. Extensor hallucis longus allografts are recommended for reconstruction of the lateral collateral ligaments in patients with posterolateral rotatory instability, and there may be a role for osteochondral allograft transplantation in capitellar osteochondral defects. In addition, the use of allografts in reconstruction of the interosseous membrane and various bone pathologies (fractures, bone tumors, forearm nonunions) has been described in current literature. CONCLUSION There is a large variety of pathology and procedures involving the use of various types of allografts in orthopedic reconstructive surgery of the elbow and forearm.
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Affiliation(s)
- R J Molenaars
- Sports Medicine Center, Harvard Medical School at Massachusetts General Hospital, 175 Cambridge St, 4th Floor, Boston, MA, 02114, USA. .,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | | | - J Viveen
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - B The
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
| | - D Eygendaal
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Amphia Hospital, Breda, The Netherlands
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10
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Abstract
Ulnar collateral ligament injuries continue to occur despite efforts to educate pitchers, coaches, and families at the amateur and professional levels about pitch counts, mechanics, and injury prevention. Although the data on the incidence of ulnar collateral ligament reconstructions are inconclusive, an increase in these reconstructions may mean a corresponding increase in the number of reconstruction failures and revision reconstruction surgeries. Less is known about the outcomes of revision ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction; not unexpectedly, early results are not as promising as those observed with primary reconstruction. In response, interest in revision techniques, rehabilitation, and outcomes of revision ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction surgeries has grown.
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11
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The effect of humeral tunnel locations on radiographic tunnel changes in baseball players following medial ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: comparison of anatomic and nonanatomic locations. J Shoulder Elbow Surg 2018; 27:1037-1043. [PMID: 29339062 DOI: 10.1016/j.jse.2017.11.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/15/2017] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been no study on radiologic changes after medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) reconstruction and related clinical features. METHODS Data from 39 baseball players who underwent MUCL reconstruction were collected and analyzed. The baseball players were classified into 2 groups according to the starting point of the humeral tunnel: (1) the lower tip of the medial epicondyle (group NA, n = 21) and (2) the remnant of the MUCL (group A, n = 18). Bone tunnel characteristics and changes were evaluated by computed tomography (CT) at 3 and 9 months postoperatively. Outcome measures consisted of the visual analog scale, range of motion (ROM), the Conway scale, and the presence of ulnar nerve irritation postoperatively. RESULTS The mean diameter of the humeral entry was 4.0 mm (range, 3.4-5.1 mm) on the first CT scan, which increased to 5.5 mm (range, 3.2-7.2 mm) on the follow-up CT scan (P < .001). The mean diameter of the ulnar tunnel was 2.8 mm (range, 1.1-3.3 mm) on the first CT scan, which decreased to 1.6 mm (range, 0-4.3 mm) on the follow-up CT scan (P < .001). The between-group comparison revealed no differences in the changes in the diameter of the humeral and ulnar tunnels. A statistically significant correlation was not found between athletic performance measured by the Conway scale and the radiologic changes on CT evaluation (P = .182). Group A showed improvement in extension from 7° preoperatively to 1° postoperatively (P < .001) and in flexion from 126° preoperatively to 136° postoperatively (P < .001), while group NA did not achieve statistical significance in ROM improvement after the operation. CONCLUSIONS Humeral tunnel widening was commonly observed, while the ulnar tunnel was maintained or became narrowed conversely. The humeral tunnel placements did not affect tunnel changes after the surgical procedure; however, MUCL reconstruction with the anatomic location of the humeral tunnel yielded substantial improvement in elbow ROM.
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12
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Hagemeijer NC, Claessen FMAP, de Haan R, Riedijk R, Eygendaal DE, van den Bekerom MP. Graft Site Morbidity in Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Procedures: A Systematic Review. Am J Sports Med 2017; 45:3382-3387. [PMID: 28314107 DOI: 10.1177/0363546517693836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear which tendon harvest for ulnar or lateral collateral ligament reconstruction has the lowest graft site morbidity rate. PURPOSES To obtain graft site morbidity rates after tendon harvest for ulnar and lateral collateral ligament reconstruction procedures. STUDY DESIGN Systematic review/Meta-analysis. METHODS Studies were eligible if (1) patients had undergone elbow ligament reconstruction procedures; (2) original data for at least 5 patients were available; (3) the article was written in English, German, or Dutch; (4) a full-text article was available; and (5) information about graft site morbidity was available. The review excluded studies about complicated elbow ligament reconstruction procedures due to initial fractures, revision procedures, or circumferential graft techniques; animal studies; (systematic) reviews; and expert opinions. Because the majority of studies were case reports, no selection form or overall scoring system to evaluate methodological quality was used. RESULTS The review included 619 patients with an ulnar or lateral collateral ligament reconstruction procedure. The autograft types used included palmaris longus tendon (58%), gracilis tendon (24%), semitendinosus tendon (8%), triceps tendon (7%), toe extensor tendon (<2%), plantaris tendon (<2%), extensor carpi radialis longus tendon (<1%), and Achilles tendon (<1%). CONCLUSION Graft site morbidity occurred in 1% of the patients after an ulnar or lateral collateral ligament reconstruction procedure. This study did not have enough samples of all the autograft types to conclude that autograft type and graft site morbidity are unrelated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noortje C Hagemeijer
- Orthotrauma Research Center Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Femke M A P Claessen
- Orthotrauma Research Center Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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13
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon J Erickson
- 1Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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14
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Elbow Ultrasound. CURRENT RADIOLOGY REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40134-016-0182-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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15
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Erickson BJ, Harris JD, Chalmers PN, Bach BR, Verma NN, Bush-Joseph CA, Romeo AA. Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: Anatomy, Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes. Sports Health 2015; 7:511-7. [PMID: 26502444 PMCID: PMC4622381 DOI: 10.1177/1941738115607208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries lead to pain and loss of performance in the thrower’s elbow. Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) is a reliable treatment option for the symptomatic, deficient UCL. Injury to the UCL usually occurs because of chronic accumulation of microtrauma, although acute ruptures occur and an acute-on-chronic presentation is also common. Evidence Acquisition: Computerized databases, references from pertinent articles, and research institutions were searched for all studies using the search terms ulnar collateral ligament from 1970 until 2015. Study Design: Clinical review. Level of Evidence: Level 5. Results: All studies reporting outcomes for UCLR are level 4. Most modern fixation methodologies appear to be biomechanically and clinically equivalent. Viable graft choices include ipsilateral palmaris longus tendon autograft, gracilis or semitendinosus autograft, and allograft. Clinical studies report excellent outcomes of UCLR for both recreational and elite level athletes with regard to return to sport and postoperative performance. Complications, although rare, include graft rerupture or attenuation, ulnar nerve symptoms, stiffness, pain, and/or weakness leading to decreased performance. Conclusion: Injuries to the UCL have become commonplace among pitchers. Nonoperative treatment should be attempted, but the limited studies have not shown promising results. Operative treatment can be performed with several techniques, with retrospective studies showing promising results. Complications include ulnar neuropathy as well as failure to return to sport. Detailed preoperative planning, meticulous surgical technique, and a comprehensive rehabilitation program are essential components to achieving a satisfactory result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brandon J Erickson
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Joshua D Harris
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, Texas Weill Cornell College of Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Peter N Chalmers
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Bernard R Bach
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Nikhil N Verma
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Anthony A Romeo
- Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Illinois
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