Long-term results after ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction of the elbow in European athletes with interference screw technique and triceps fascia autograft

Rehabilitation Protocols in Elbow Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries: A Systematic Review of Articles Published in the Last 20 Years

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.

Graft choice and techniques used in elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction over the last 20 years: a systematic review and meta-analysis

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.

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

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.

Biomechanical Comparison of Stability and Strength After Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction With Suture Anchor Fixation Versus Bone Tunnels

Background

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries occur frequently in baseball players, and UCL reconstruction is performed when nonoperative treatment fails.

Purpose

To compare a novel all-suture anchor method of UCL reconstruction with a method using bone tunnels (Ito method) by investigating the displacement against valgus torque and the failure strength.

Study Design

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods

Eight fresh-frozen cadaveric upper extremities (mean age, 82.0 years) were utilized in this study. To evaluate the displacement against valgus torque, the valgus stability test was performed for 4 anterior oblique ligament (AOL) conditions: intact AOL, resected AOL, reconstructed using the anchor method, and reconstructed using the Ito method. The load-to-failure test was performed to evaluate the failure strength of the anchor and Ito methods. Displacement against valgus load was compared between conditions using the repeated-measures 2-way analysis of variance with Bonferroni post hoc test, and failure strength between the anchor and Ito methods was compared using the unpaired t test.

Results

Displacements of the intact AOL and anchor method were significantly greater than those of the resected AOL at both 60° and 90° of flexion (intact AOL: P = .005 and P < .001, respectively; and anchor method: P = .024 and P < .001, respectively). The displacement of the Ito method at 90° of flexion was significantly greater than that of the resected AOL (P = .003), but no significant difference was observed at 60° of flexion (P = .109). There were no significant differences in displacement between the anchor and Ito methods at any flexion angle, nor was there a significant difference in failure torque between the anchor and Ito methods (16.3 ± 3.1 vs 17.6 ± 2.3 N·m, respectively; P = .537).

Conclusion

The displacement and failure strength against a valgus load after UCL reconstruction using a suture anchor on the ulnar side were equal to those using bone tunnels.

Clinical Relevance

UCL reconstruction using a suture anchor on the ulnar side is simpler and less invasive than using bone tunnels, with similar outcomes.

Pain Is the Most Frequently Cited Reason Athletes Fail to Return to Sport After Ulnar Collateral Ligament Surgery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Background

No previous systematic review to our knowledge has examined the reasons that athletes fail to return to sport (RTS) after ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) surgery.

Purpose

To report the rate of failure to RTS after UCL surgery and identify reasons that preclude an athlete's ability to successfully RTS.

Study Design

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods

This study was conducted in accordance with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We searched the PubMed, Scopus, and SPORTDiscus databases for studies on athletes who underwent either UCL reconstruction or repair that reported RTS rates and identified reasons for failure to RTS. Data were collected on the number of athletes included, average age, sport played, operative technique, average follow-up, rate of failure to RTS, and reasons for failure to return. A random-effects model was used to conduct the meta-analysis.

Results

Included were 26 studies reporting on 1019 athletes. Primary or revision UCL reconstruction was performed in 913 patients (89.6%), while the remaining 106 patients (10.4%) underwent UCL repair. The pooled rate of failure to RTS after UCL reconstruction or repair was calculated to be 11.4% (95% CI, 8.4-14.7). A significantly higher estimated proportion of athletes failed to return because of elbow-related reasons compared with non-elbow-related reasons (55.3% vs 40.6%; P = .0352). Persistent pain (29/103; 28.2%) was the most common reason for failure to return, followed by elbow limitations and other unspecified elbow problems (19/103; 18.4%). There was moderate evidence for publication bias and study heterogeneity across the included studies.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis estimated the rate of failure to RTS after UCL surgery as 11.4%, with the majority of athletes unable to return because of elbow pain. Future studies reporting outcomes and providing details as to why athletes are unable to RTS can better inform sport surgeons on factors precluding RTS and can guide clinical practice to better help athletes achieve their postoperative goals.

Rehabilitation and Return to Sport Criteria Following Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

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.

Biomechanical Evaluation of a Low-Invasive Elbow Medial Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Technique With Fascia and Tendon Patches

Background: Injury to the medial collateral ligament (MCL) of the elbow has become increasingly common in sports, and the elbow is prone to contracture and ossification in trauma. Effective reconstruction of the MCL with reduction of irritation to the elbow has rarely been reported. This study introduces a minimally invasive elbow MCL reconstruction technique and evaluates the valgus stability.

Methods: Eight fresh-frozen elbow specimens underwent reconstruction of the anterior bundle of the MCL (AMCL) first with the flexor carpi ulnaris fascia patches, followed by reconstruction of the posterior bundle of the MCL (PMCL) with the triceps tendon patches. The valgus angles of each specimen were examined in three stages as follows: intact MCL, reconstruction of the AMCL alone, and reconstruction of the MCL (including AMCL and PMCL). Finally, specimens were loaded to failure, and failure modes were recorded.

Results: AMCL reconstruction alone had similar valgus stability at all testing angles (p = 0.080, 30° flexion; p = 0.064, 60° flexion; p = 0.151, 90° flexion; p = 0.283, 120° flexion) compared with the intact MCL, as did MCL reconstruction (p = 0.951, 30° flexion; p = 0.739, 60° flexion; p = 0.841, 90° flexion; p = 0.538, 120° flexion). More importantly, a significant difference existed between the MCL reconstruction and the AMCL reconstruction alone at 30° flexion (p = 0.043) and 60° flexion (p = 0.013) but not at the 90° flexion (p = 0.369) and 120° flexion (p = 0.879). The mean maximum failure torque of MCL reconstruction was 24.02 Nm at 90° elbow flexion.

Conclusion: Both AMCL reconstruction alone and MCL reconstruction provided valgus stability comparable with the native MCL, and importantly, MCL reconstruction provided more valgus stability than AMCL reconstruction alone at 30° flexion and 60° flexion of the elbow. Therefore, the new MCL reconstruction technique might be a useful guide for the treatment of elbow MCL injuries or deficiencies.

Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction in javelin throwers: an analysis of return to play rates and patient outcomes

BACKGROUND

Although results after ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) in baseball players have been well documented, the literature is replete regarding the outcomes after UCLR in javelin throwers.

PURPOSE

To report outcomes after UCLR in javelin throwers.

HYPOTHESIS

UCLR in javelin throwers will result in a high rate of return to play similar to that of previously published studies from athletes of other sports.

METHODS

All patients who were identified preoperatively as javelin throwers and underwent UCLR between 2011 and 2017 with a minimum 2-year follow-up were eligible for inclusion. Patients were assessed with the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Shoulder and Elbow score, Timmerman-Andrews Elbow score, Conway-Jobe score, patient satisfaction, return to sport rate questionnaire, and the occurrence of any postoperative complications.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients met the inclusion criteria. Complete follow-up was available in 16 (88.9%) patients. The average age at surgery was 21.2 ± 2.0 (range, 18.6-24.9) years. At the final follow-up, the average Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Shoulder and Elbow score and Timmerman-Andrews Elbow score were 77.3 (range, 18.7-98.4) and 91.8 (range, 70.0-100.0), respectively. Outcomes on the Conway-Jobe scale were as follows: excellent (n = 6; 37.5%), good (n = 4; 25%), fair (n = 6; 37.5%). Ten (62.5%) patients returned to play at an average of 12.2 ± 3.6 (range, 6.0-18.0) months after surgery. Two (12.5%) patients sustained a shoulder injury postoperatively; however, neither required surgery.

CONCLUSION

UCLR in javelin throwers results in good outcomes with a low rate of reinjury/reoperation. However, the return to play rate (62.5%) and good/excellent outcomes per the Conway-Jobe scale (68.8%) are lower than what has been previously reported in baseball players and javelin throwers. Further investigation regarding outcomes in javelin throwers after UCLR is warranted.

Routine diagnostic arthroscopy with elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction does not reduce the need for future valgus extension overload-related surgeries: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Valgus extension overload syndrome (VEOS) most commonly affects overhead athletes and consists of a constellation of conditions involving the medial, posterior, and lateral elbow, with the most widely discussed being ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries. Many athletes with UCL tears also have findings consistent with other VEOS conditions, though these are not consistently symptomatic. Given the high rate of concomitant pathology, many authors have recommended performing arthroscopy at the time of UCL reconstruction (UCLR) to diagnose and address concomitant VEOS pathology; however, it is not known if this practice actually leads to a reduction in subsequent surgeries for VEOS conditions following index UCLR. The purpose of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine if performing routine diagnostic arthroscopy (RDA) in patients undergoing UCLR was associated with a lower incidence of future VEOS-related surgery.

METHODS

This study was performed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, with the primary outcome of interest being the likelihood of needing future surgery to address VEOS conditions with or without RDA at the time of index UCLR. The proportion and incidence rate of subsequent VEOS-related surgeries following UCLR with and without RDA were compared in mixed effects models.

RESULTS

There were 25 eligible studies from an initial 1335 systematically identified articles, with results for 2118 UCLR cases. Among these, there were a total of 94 reported VEOS-related surgeries. The proportion of subsequent VEOS-related surgeries was lower when UCLR was performed with RDA (0.40%, 95% CI 0.00%-3.51%) than without (1.16%, 95% CI 0.03%-3.25%), but the difference was not significant (P = .584). The incidence rate of VEOS-related surgeries was 0.16 (95% CI 0.00-0.95) per 100 person-years with RDA and 0.14 (95% CI 0.00-0.55) per 100 person-years without RDA (P = .942).

CONCLUSION

RDA preceding UCLR does not significantly reduce the proportion or rate of subsequent surgery for other VEOS conditions. There has been a decrease in RDA utilization with UCLR over time for athletes with torn/incompetent UCLs but otherwise no known symptomatic VEOS conditions, and this trend appears to be justified based on these findings.

Postoperative Rehabilitation of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review

The incidence of ulnar collateral ligament injuries has increased over the past few decades with greater participation in overhead throwing sports; however, optimal postoperative management following surgery remains unclear. This systematic review summarizes the latest evidence, on postoperative rehabilitation protocols for patients undergoing ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR). Studies published in the English language from the year 2000 to 2019 with a level 1 to 4 grade of evidence and examined rehabilitation protocols following UCLR were eligible for inclusion. A multidatabase search was conducted. Two blinded reviewers screened and graded articles for inclusion and a third independent reviewer resolved any conflicts. Ten of the original 139 studies identified were used for analysis. Surgical techniques as well as rehabilitation protocols varied across studies. Analysis gave strong evidence that a 4-phase postoperative rehabilitation protocol utilizing milestone-based goals is effective in returning athletes back to preinjury levels of activity and sport within 1 year following UCLR.

Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction of the elbow at minimum 48-month mean follow-up demonstrates excellent clinical outcomes with low complication and revision rates: systematic review

IMPORTANCE

Tears of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow occur predominantly as an overuse injury, most commonly affecting throwing athletes, particularly baseball players. UCL reconstruction (UCLR) has been described as an effective treatment modality in the short term.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to systematically review the evidence in the literature to ascertain the clinical outcomes, complication and revision rates in baseball players following UCLR of the elbow at a minimum of 48 months of follow-up.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

Two independent reviewers performed a search of the literature based on Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines using the EMBASE, PubMed and Scopus databases. Clinical studies were included if they reported outcomes of baseball players at a minimum of 48 months following UCLR.

FINDINGS

Our review included 8 studies including 1104 baseball players (1105 elbows) at mean 69.9 months (48-205) following UCLR. The majority of baseball players were pitchers (92.3%), with a mean age of 22.2 years (13-42). At final follow-up, the overall return to play (RTP) was 95.3%%, with 85.3% returning at pre-injury level. In addition, the mean reported Conway-Jobe score was 86.8%, the revision rate was 6.0% with postoperative neuropathy reported in 2.4% of patients. A total of 479 (43.4%) were professional baseball players, with an overall RTP rate of 97.5% and 82.3% managing to RTP at their pre-injury level. The mean number of career years following UCLR was 4.7 years (0-22).

CONCLUSION AND RELEVANCE

UCLR provides excellent patient-reported and clinical outcomes to patients at medium-term follow-up with low complication and revision rates. In addition, high rates of RTP at pre-injury level and career longevity were reported by baseball players following UCLR.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV; Systematic Review.

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction With the Modified Jobe Technique in Baseball Pitchers

Background:

Tearing and insufficiency of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow result in valgus instability, which can lead to pain while throwing and decline in performance in overhead athletes.

Purpose:

To assess the clinical results of a modified UCL reconstruction technique using 1 bone hole in the ulna and 1 bone tunnel in the humerus in baseball players.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

The inclusion criteria were medial elbow pain preventing effective playing, clinically medial elbow laxity, and magnetic resonance imaging results consistent with UCL injury. Patients who were engaged in other sports and in other positions in baseball except pitchers were excluded from this study. Our modified Tommy John procedure was performed via a muscle-splitting approach and an original single-bone-tunnel technique, using a suture anchor. After a minimum of 24 months, patients were evaluated using the Conway scale and the Timmerman-Andrews score.

Results:

Of 31 patients, 20 baseball pitchers (20 male: 5 high school, 5 collegiate, 8 nonprofessional, and 2 professional pitchers) were reviewed. The mean patient age at the time of operation was 21.9 years, and the mean postoperative follow-up period was 35.1 months (range, 24-66 months). The mean Timmerman-Andrews subjective score improved significantly from pre- to postoperatively (from 68.3 to 98.3; P < .05); the objective score also improved significantly (from 81.1 to 96.4; P = .01). No complications were detected at the latest follow-up. Overall, 19 patients were able to return to their preinjury level of sports or higher.

Conclusion:

UCL reconstruction with 1 bone hole in the ulna and 1 bone tunnel in the humerus demonstrated satisfactory results in baseball pitchers. Our modified technique was safe and achieved satisfactory clinical results, with a 95% rate of return to sports.

Functional outcomes of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction with a novel double suspensory fixation

BACKGROUND

Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) has allowed the return of overhead athletes to throwing sports. We describe a new double suspensory (DS) technique using a single tunnel in the ulna and humerus, achieving fixation with adjustable loop buttons.

METHODS

Inclusion criteria included skeletally mature baseball players with clinical and magnetic resonance imaging diagnosis of UCL insufficiency who failed a trial of structured nonoperative treatment. A total of 36 baseball players underwent DS UCLR, between 2011 and 2017, by 1 surgeon with minimum 2-year follow-up. The graft was fixated with an adjustable button loop on the humeral side and a tension slide technique with a button on the ulnar side. Pre- and postoperative Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation and postoperative Conway scores were obtained.

RESULTS

The mean age was 19.8 ± 4.6 years (range, 14-35 years). All were male. Mean years played before surgery was 14.3 ± 4.6 years (range, 8-28 years). There were 32 (89%) pitchers and 4 (11%) position players. There were 13 (36%) high school, 20 (55%) college, 2 (6%) minor league, and 1 (3%) adult league athletes. The mean follow-up was 55.3 ± 23.7 months (range, 26-97 months). There was significant improvement in Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic (33.2 ± 19.9 to 89.7 ± 15.1, P < .0001) and Single Assessment Numerical Evaluation (20.7 ± 16.7 to 93.6 ± 11.9, P < .0001) scores. Using Conway scoring, 25 (69%) had excellent, 5 (14%) good, 3 (8%) fair, and 3 (8%) poor scores. Mean return to play was 9 ± 1.5 months (range, 6-16 months). Only 1 (3%) athlete required a revision surgery and ultimately returned to play and 1 (3%) hardware removal. None developed ulnar nerve symptoms.

CONCLUSION

DS fixation for UCLR in baseball players can lead to excellent clinical results and early return to play.

State of the Union on Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction in 2020: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

There has been a marked increase in the number of ulnar collateral ligament reconstructions performed annually and an associated increase in the amount of recent literature published. It is paramount that surgeons remain up to date on the current literature, as modern indications and surgical techniques continue to improve clinical outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

Our understanding of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries, treatment indications, and surgical techniques for UCL reconstruction continues to evolve. Despite the rapidly increasing amount of published literature on the topic, a clear and concise surgical algorithm is lacking. Studies have suggested a trend towards improved clinical outcomes and decreased complications with various modifications in UCL reconstruction techniques. Current sport-specific outcome studies have reported conflicting results regarding the effect of UCL reconstruction on an athlete's performance upon returning to sport. With the rising incidence of UCL reconstruction and growing media attention, UCL injuries, reconstruction techniques, and return to sport following UCL surgery are timely topics of interest to clinicians and overhead throwing athletes. Several technique modifications have been reported, and these modifications may lead to improved outcomes and lower complication rates. Studies assessing sport-specific outcome measures will be necessary to provide a more critical and informative analysis of outcomes following UCL reconstruction.

The History and Evolution of Elbow Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: from Tommy John to 2020

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review article is to discuss the evolution of surgical reconstruction of the anterior bundle of the UCL, otherwise known as Tommy John surgery, from Dr. Jobe's initial description in 1986 to present day. In particular, the unique changes brought forth by each new surgical technique, and the reasons that these changes were implemented, are highlighted.

RECENT FINDINGS

The incidence of UCL reconstruction surgery continues to increase significantly, particularly in the 15- to 19-year-old age group. New anatomic understanding of the anterior bundle of the UCL, including the importance of the central fibers and the broad and tapered ulnar insertion, may affect optimal UCL reconstruction techniques in the future. Although return to play rates are generally quite high (80-95%), the mean time to return to play (typically 12-18 months for pitchers) is longer than desired. Accordingly, many authors feel that there remains room for improvement in the treatment of this common injury. The Tommy John surgery has evolved in many ways with the development of novel techniques over the last 35 years. Currently, overhead throwing athletes undergoing UCL reconstruction have high return to play and low complication rates. Future modifications to the surgery may aim to further improve outcomes and, more importantly, expedite the length of postoperative rehabilitation.

Conservative Versus Surgical Management of Elbow Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury: A Systematic Review

Objective

Several studies have been published regarding the treatment of medial ulnar collateral ligament (MUCL) injuries for professional overhead athletes. However, there is a paucity of data regarding non‐professional athletes. The aim of this systematic review was to compare the rate of outcome scores and complications of conservative versus operative treatments both in non‐professional athletes and in non‐sport‐related trauma patients with MUCL lesions.

Methods

A systematic review of the published literature was performed by applying the PRISMA guidelines. A search was conducted using three databases: Medline, Science Direct, and Web of Science. The keywords used were “ulnar collateral ligament injury,” “elbow,” “surgery,” and “conservative treatment”. Patients were divided into three groups: patients who underwent conservative treatment (C‐group), surgical treatment (S‐group), and surgery after a failed conservative treatment (C&S‐group). Clinical outcomes were analyzed: Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH), Conway scale, Carson score, and Kerlan–Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic score (KJOC).

Results

A total of 15 studies were included, evaluating 513 patients. Although good and excellent outcomes were found for most patients during daily and/or sport activities, independently of the type of treatment, the C‐group had better results. Excellent results were found in 98.8% of the C‐group, in 88.1% of the S‐group, and in 87.7% of the C&S‐group. The complication rate in the C‐group was statistically higher compared to the S and C&S groups (P < 0.001). However, its complication rate was higher with lower patient satisfaction.

Conclusions

There is insufficient evidence to establish statistically significant differences in the effects of conservative versus surgical treatments on the functional outcomes of patients with MUCL lesions. However, a period of rehabilitation therapy and the functional request of the single injured subject are useful to discern which patients genuinely require MUCL surgical repair.

UCL Injury in the Non-throwing Athlete

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Primarily reported in the overhead throwing athlete, ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries have been extensively studied since Dr. Frank Jobe first described his technique for ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction on professional baseball pitcher Tommy John. While the framework for our understanding of UCL injury was initially established studying the repetitive valgus loading of the throwers' elbow, other sport-related activities in non-throwing athletes can impart similar valgus stress on the medial elbow placing the UCL at risk for injury. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the current literature on UCL injury specifically in the non-throwing athlete.

RECENT FINDINGS

In the four decades since Dr. Jobe's seminal description of UCL reconstruction, an abundance of literature has been published on UCL injury in the throwing athlete. The evidence evaluating the UCL specifically in the non-throwing athlete, however, is quite scarce. Several small retrospective studies have demonstrated good results with high rates of return to play with focused rehabilitation and non-operative management in non-throwing athletes. Recent evidence has also demonstrated that surgical repair and/or reconstruction of the UCL in this population can produce good outcomes. The level of evidence of these published studies is low and consists primarily of case series without control groups. Further investigation is warranted to determine the optimal treatment algorithm for UCL injury in the non-throwing athlete.

Complications and Outcomes After Medial Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: A Meta-Regression and Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Evidence is limited regarding the complications and outcomes after medial ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction. The published data regarding this procedure are composed predominantly of small Level-III and IV retrospective studies for which meta-analysis is not generally useful. Meta-regression is an alternative technique to identify variables across multiple publications that have an effect on published outcomes and complication rates.

METHODS

We performed a systematic search of published literature for outcomes after UCL reconstruction. A random effects meta-regression model was constructed to identify the association of study characteristics with outcome proportions. Sensitivity analyses were performed to assess the impact of influential studies on the results.

RESULTS

Fourteen studies (median sample size, 26 patients; range, 10 to 743 patients) were included in the systematic review and meta-regression. These studies included a total of 1,177 patients with a reported Conway outcome rating (a measure of a patient's return to play). The majority of patients (mean, 83.2%) achieved an excellent Conway rating. Studies involving the docking technique were more likely to have a higher percentage of patients with an excellent outcome (14% risk difference compared with the figure-of-8 technique, p = 0.002) and lower reported rates of ulnar neurapraxia (Spearman correlation = -0.83). A lower reported rate of ulnar neurapraxia was strongly associated with the likelihood of an excellent (p = 0.01) or good or excellent (p = 0.001) Conway outcome rating.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite substantial heterogeneity among study outcomes, studies that involved a docking technique and that had lower reported rates of ulnar neurapraxia were associated with greater percentages of excellent or good-to-excellent reported Conway outcome ratings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level IV. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Ulnar Nerve Complications After Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction of the Elbow: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

While ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) of the elbow is an increasingly commonly performed procedure with excellent results reported in the published literature, less attention has been paid to specifically on the characterization of postoperative ulnar nerve complications, and it is unclear what operative strategies may influence the likelihood of these complications.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study is to examine the prevalence and type of ulnar nerve complications after UCLR of the elbow based on the entirety of previously published outcomes in the English literature. In addition, this study examined how the rate of ulnar nerve complications varied as a function of surgical exposures, graft fixation techniques, and ulnar nerve management strategies.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

A systematic review of the literature was completed using the MEDLINE, PubMed, and Ovid databases. UCLR case series that contained complications data were included. Ulnar neuropathy was defined as any symptoms or objective sensory and/or motor deficit(s) after surgery, including resolved transient symptoms. Meta-analysis of the pooled data was completed.

RESULTS

Seventeen articles (n = 1518 cases) met the inclusion criteria, all retrospective cohort studies. The mean prevalence of postoperative ulnar neuropathy was 12.0% overall after any UCLR procedure at a mean follow-up of 3.3 years, and 0.8% of cases required reoperation to address ulnar neuropathy. There were no cases of intraoperative ulnar nerve injury reported. The surgical approach associated with the highest rate of neuropathy was detachment of flexor pronator mass (FPM) (21.9%) versus muscle retraction (15.9%) and muscle splitting (3.9%). The fixation technique associated with the highest rate of neuropathy was the modified Jobe (16.9%) versus DANE TJ (9.1%), figure-of-8 (9.0%), interference screw (5.0%), docking technique (3.3%), hybrid suture anchor-bone tunnel (2.9%), and modified docking (2.5%). Concomitant ulnar nerve transposition was associated with a higher neuropathy rate (16.1%) compared with no handling of the ulnar nerve (3.9%). Among cases with concomitant transposition performed, submuscular transposition resulted in a higher rate of reoperation for ulnar neuropathy (12.7%) compared with subcutaneous transposition (0.0%).

CONCLUSION

Despite a perception that UCLR has minimal morbidity, a review of all published literature revealed that 12.0% of UCLR surgeries result in postoperative ulnar nerve complications. UCLR techniques associated with the highest rates of neuropathy were detachment of the FPM, modified Jobe fixation, and concomitant ulnar nerve transposition, although it remains unclear whether there is a causal relationship between these factors and subsequent development of postoperative ulnar neuropathy due to limitations in the current body of published literature.

Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Using the Novel Docking Plus Technique in 324 Athletes

BACKGROUND

This retrospective case series examined 324 athletes who received elbow ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction by a single surgeon in a private practice over a 9-year period. The novel Docking Plus technique for elbow UCL reconstruction in 324 athletes provided good or excellent Conway score results in 88% of patients. The preponderance of previous studies examining UCL reconstruction outcomes were performed by surgeons at one of only three institutions (Andrews Institute, Hospital for Special Surgery, Kerlan Jobe Orthopedic Clinic).

METHODS

Patients undergoing UCL reconstruction from November 2005 to December 2014 were identified and contacted with a mailed survey and phone call. These patients were given a subjective 19 question survey assessing their outcomes from surgery.

RESULTS

The participants who responded to our survey were 90% male and 77% baseball players, 73% of which were pitchers. Of the baseball players who responded, 51.9% were in high school at the time of their surgery, 37% college, 6.5% minor leagues, and 2.2% in Major League Baseball. After surgery, 36% of survey responders returned to a higher level of competition than previously. For example, a high school athlete who had UCL reconstruction and went on to pitch in college. Further, 45% returned to the same level, and 7% returned to a lower level. Subjective "satisfaction," was reported in 92% of responders and 97.2% reported that, "having surgery was a good idea." Symptom onset in the responding athletes was 58.9% sudden, and 41.1% gradual. Overall, 90.9% of respondents returned to play in less than 1.5 years while 6.3% never were able to return. Re-tear occurred in 2.5% of patients, while 8.8% had subjective nerve dysfunction for at least 3 months following surgery.

CONCLUSION

The Docking Plus technique can produce excellent subjective and objective results in athletes. Further study is warranted to see the effects of this procedure in other settings and determine which method of reconstruction or repair is superior.

Elbow flexion angle during graft fixation for ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: a systematic review of outcomes and complications

BACKGROUND

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow is commonly injured in overhead athletes, especially baseball pitchers. UCL reconstruction has shown good outcomes regarding return to play, but revision rates are on the rise. This review was conducted to determine the effect of elbow flexion angle during graft fixation on outcomes and complications after UCL reconstruction.

METHODS

MEDLINE, Embase, and PubMed were searched from database inception to November 16, 2017. Patient demographics, surgical technique, graft selection, outcomes, and complications were extracted from the included studies. The quality of each study was assessed in duplicate with the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies criteria. Descriptive statistics are presented.

RESULTS

Six studies, with a total of 1168 patients, were included, and all were case series. Excellent Conway scores were present in 83.8% of patients for the 0° to 30° group and in 91.1% of patients for the 45° to 70° group, with no significant differences in return to play between the groups. The rate of revision UCL reconstruction was significantly higher with graft fixation at 0° to 30° (1.4%) compared with fixation at 45° to 70° (0%; P < .01).

CONCLUSIONS

Elbow flexion angle during graft fixation may not influence return to the same or higher level of competition but appears to influence the need for a revision after UCL reconstruction. However, the available current evidence possesses a high degree of fragility, and further studies are needed with objective measurements to determine the optimal elbow flexion angle for graft fixation.

Prevalence and clinical outcomes of heterotopic ossification after ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction

BACKGROUND

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction has become increasingly popular in elite athletes. However, the prevalence of heterotopic ossification (HO) formation after UCL reconstruction has not yet been reported. We sought to determine the prevalence of HO formation after UCL reconstruction and the clinical outcomes following HO treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

From October 2005 to April 2014, 179 patients underwent primary UCL reconstruction. Of the 179 patients, 161 with a minimum of 2 years of follow-up were retrospectively reviewed to evaluate HO formation and clinical outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 161 patients, HO was detected in 8 cases (5%). Of these 8 patients, 2 were asymptomatic and another 2 complained about transient ulnar neuropathy. The remaining 4 patients had pain; 2 were treated with open excision, and 1 underwent arthroscopic excision. The odds of HO in patients in whom transient ulnar neuropathy develops after UCL reconstruction are 6 times higher than those without transient ulnar neuropathy (odds ratio, 5.957; 95% confidence level, P = .04). Of the 8 patients, 7 returned to the same level or a higher level of competition. HO was found, on average, 5 months (range, 3-9 months) after UCL reconstruction.

CONCLUSION

The prevalence of HO formation was approximately 5% after UCL reconstruction and increased with transient ulnar neuropathy. After UCL reconstruction, the surgeon should carefully observe HO formation, especially in the early stages after the operation. With appropriate treatment, the clinical outcomes of HO treatment after UCL reconstruction are favorable.

Graft Site Morbidity in Elbow Ligament Reconstruction Procedures: A Systematic Review

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.

[Chronic ligamentous instability of the elbow]

BACKGROUND

Chronic ligamentous instability of the elbow is an important pathology as it is accompanied with pronounced dysfunction. Moreover, it represents an established risk factor for the development of osteoarthritis. Posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) caused by insufficiency of the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) is the most common type of chronic elbow instability and is usually a sequel of traumatic elbow dislocation. Chronic overload can lead to insufficiency of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) with subsequent valgus instability, especially in overhead athletes.

DIAGNOSTICS

Subjective instability and recurrent elbow dislocations are not always the main symptoms but elbow instability is instead often characterized by pain and secondary joint stiffness. Many clinical tests are available yet eliciting them can be difficult and inconclusive. A "drop sign" on lateral radiographs as well as the detection of collateral ligament injuries and joint incongruity on MRI scans can support the suspected diagnosis. In some cases, instability can only be verified by diagnostic arthroscopy.

TREATMENT

Reconstruction of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) for treatment of PLRI generally leads to good clinical results, yet recurrent instability remains an issue and has been reported in 8 % of cases. UCL reconstruction for chronic valgus instability leads to a return-to-sports rate of about 86 % in the overhead athlete. Ulnar neuropathy, which is seen in approximately 6 % of patients, represents the most common complication. On the rare occasion of multidirectional instability, the box-loop technique can be used for simultaneous reconstruction of the LUCL and UCL with a circumferential graft. 15 cases with promising results have been reported in literature thus far.

Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Using a 4-Strand Docking Plus Technique

The "Docking Plus" technique for elbow ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) surgery is described in the following text and video. Depite the general success of UCL surgery, significant rates of retear and failure of return to competition persist. Hypothesized reasons for UCL surgery failure include insufficient graft strength (midsubstance tears), insufficient graft tensioning (functional UCL insufficiency, valgus extension overload), and insufficient healing of graft to bone (proximal avulsions). This technique is meant to incorporate the best aspects of the previously described techniques for UCL reconstruction to create a larger, stronger, better-tensioned graft with a larger healing surface area to bone, a lower retear rate, and a lower risk of complications. The Docking Plus technique has been used since 2012.

The Relationships Between Surface Measurements and Underlying Tendon Autograft Length for Upper Extremity Reconstructive Surgery

PURPOSE

The availability of tendon grafts is an important consideration for successful upper extremity reconstructive surgery, including flexor or extensor tendon reconstructions, tendon transfers, and ligament reconstructions. Graft selection is based on availability, expendability, ease of harvest, and length. Given variations in patient height and extremity length, existing average values may provide suboptimal insight into actual tendon lengths available. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to pursue a method of estimating available donor tendon lengths based on easily measured anatomical surface landmarks.

METHODS

Thirty cadaveric upper and lower extremity limbs were dissected and the length of commonly harvested tendon grafts including the palmaris longus, extensor indicis proprius, extensor digiti minimi, plantaris, and second long toe extensor was measured. Surface forearm length (from finger tip to cubital fossa) and surface fibular length (from lateral malleolus to fibular head) were also measured. Correlations between surface measurements and underlying tendon lengths were analyzed, and linear models were generated that predicted tendon length as a function of surface measurements.

RESULTS

Surface measurements were correlated with underlying tendon length (R = 0.46 - 0.66). Linear models could predict tendon lengths based on surface measurements. A ratio of donor tendon length compared with the limb segment measured was established for each tendon and can be applied to estimate donor tendon length. For the upper extremity tendons, the multipliers for the palmaris longus, extensor indicis proprius, and extensor digiti minimi were 0.51, 0.20, and 0.18, respectively. Lower extremity tendon ratios for the plantaris and extensor digitorum longus were 0.69 and 0.60, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Although length of available donor tendon can be a limiting variable at the time of surgery, surgeons may be better able to estimate underlying tendon lengths using easily obtained superficial measurements.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Information obtained from these cadaveric measurements may aid in preoperative planning in hand and upper extremity surgery.

Comparison of Surgical Techniques for Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction in Overhead Athletes

Several surgical techniques and modifications for ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction have been proposed since this procedure was first performed in 1974. The goal of these techniques has been restoration of stability to the medial elbow with minimal alteration to the surrounding anatomy. Outcome studies and systematic reviews on modified techniques for UCL reconstruction have shown a trend toward increased return to play in patients, particularly overhead athletes. Abandonment of flexor pronator mass detachment in favor of a muscle-splitting or muscle-elevating approach, minimal handling of the ulnar nerve, and the docking technique may result in improved outcomes and decreased complications without diminished performance. Several biomechanical studies have compared the structural properties of these techniques with those of the native UCL. However, a clear, concise surgical algorithm for UCL reconstruction is lacking. Additional studies that use sport-specific outcome measures and performance metrics may better demonstrate the true return to preinjury performance after UCL reconstruction in overhead athletes.

Ulnar collateral ligament in the overhead athlete: a current review

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries are most commonly reported in baseball players (particularly in pitchers) but have also been observed in other overhead athletes including javelin, softball, tennis, volleyball, water polo, and gymnastics. Partial injuries have been successfully treated with appropriate nonoperative measures but complete tears and chronic injuries have shown less benefit from conservative measures. In these cases, surgical reconstruction has become the treatment modality for overhead athlete who wishes to continue to play. This article discusses the functional anatomy and biomechanics of the UCL as related to the pathophysiology of overhead throwing, as well as the important clinical methods needed to make accurate and timely diagnosis. It also gives an updated review of the current clinical outcomes and complications of surgical reconstruction.

A systematic review of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction techniques

BACKGROUND

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction of the elbow has become increasingly more frequent among elite overhead athletes. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review comparing the clinical outcomes and biomechanical results of the Jobe, modified Jobe, docking, modified docking, Endobutton, and interference screw techniques for UCL reconstruction.

HYPOTHESIS

The docking technique will have significantly fewer complications and improved return-to-play rate.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Using the Medline PubMed, Cochrane, and EMBASE databases, a search was performed of all published articles, including randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and case series, examining UCL reconstructions performed using one of the above noted techniques and excluding case reports and hybrid techniques. Statistical analysis was performed using a χ(2) test of independence and 2-proportion Z test.

RESULTS

A total of 21 studies, 7 biomechanical and 14 clinical, met the inclusion criteria. There were 1368 patients. The overall complication rate was 18.6% (255/1368), further subdivided into 21 for the Jobe technique (29.2%), 203 for the modified Jobe technique (19.1%), 2 for the interference screw technique (10.0%), 2 (4.3%) for the modified docking technique, and 10 for the docking technique (6.0%). The most common complication across all studies was ulnar nerve neurapraxia in 176 patients (12.9%). The overall rate of return to play was 78.9%.

CONCLUSION

Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction utilizing the docking technique results in a significantly higher rate of return to play and a lower complication rate when compared with the Jobe and modified Jobe techniques.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

A lower complication rate can lead to increased rates of return to play and better outcomes postoperatively.

Elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: clinical, radiographic, and ultrasound outcomes at a mean 3-year follow-up

BACKGROUND

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) has the main function to be stress-resistant to elbow valgus overload. Multilayer tears require a reconstruction with a tendon graft. In this study, we report the clinical, radiographic, and ultrasound outcomes after tendon graft reconstruction for symptomatic UCL insufficiency.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Among twenty-six subjects underwent elbow UCL reconstruction from 2006 to 2012, fifteen were available to be evaluated at a mean follow-up of 36 months. Preoperative assessment included clinical examination and MRI. The outcome measures were the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS); the Oxford Elbow Score (OES); the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH); and the Conway-Jobe Scale. Overall population was postoperatively investigated with X-ray and ultrasound (US). Reconstruction was performed with autograft (palmaris longus) in five cases and allograft (semitendinosus) in ten cases using the figure-of-eight configuration (five cases), the docking technique (eight cases), or a fixation with screws (two cases).

RESULTS

We found a significant improvement in postoperative MEPS, OES, and DASH scores (p < 0.01). One case was unsatisfied and required an additional procedure of ulnar nerve transposition 12 months after the reconstruction. X-ray showed calcifications along the graft in ten cases. At US examination, all the grafts assessed appeared anatomically intact without structural changes, and the dynamic examination showed a slight medial laxity with the valgus stress maneuver without pain or other sign of medial instability.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms the efficacy of the graft reconstruction for chronic UCL insufficiency and introduces fresh insight on the role of musculoskeletal ultrasound to evaluate the reconstructed UCL.

Efficacy, usability and tolerability of a dynamic elbow orthosis after collateral ligament reconstruction: a prospective randomized study

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy, usability and tolerability of a dynamic orthosis compared with a standard plaster splint after the reconstruction of elbow medial or lateral collateral ligaments (MCL, LCL).

METHODS

Twenty-six subjects undergoing MCL (n = 23) or LCL (n = 3) reconstruction were randomly assigned to immobilization with an orthosis (n = 13; group A "Innovator X") or with a plaster splint (n = 13; group B "Plaster splint"). Outcome measures were visual analogue scale pain score, mid-arm (MA) circumference, grip strength, Oxford elbow score (OES) and range of motion (ROM). Patients were assessed at baseline and at 2, 6, 12 and 24 weeks.

RESULTS

Significant pain reduction was reported by all patients at 6, 12 and 24 weeks (p < 0.05). Mean MA circumference was significantly higher in group A at all time points (all p < 0.05). Mean grip strength was greater in group A on weeks 2 and 6 (p < 0.05), whereas the difference found on weeks 12 and 24 was not significant. The OES and passive ROM values of the two groups were not significantly different at any time point.

CONCLUSIONS

The dynamic orthosis and the plaster splint both provided effective and safe elbow immobilization after MCL or LCL reconstruction. The orthosis provided greater pain reduction, faster recovery of muscle trophism and grip strength, and was better tolerated.