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Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: American Sports Medicine Institute Technique and Outcomes

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Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury

Abstract

Ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries of the elbow are typically seen in overhead athletes due to the significant valgus stress on the medial structures of the elbow during throwing. Consistency between history, imaging studies, and physical examination is necessary to make the diagnosis. Patients who desire to continue competitive overhead activity and have failed conservative measures have been treated successfully with UCL reconstruction using the Andrews modification of the original Jobe technique at the American Sports Medicine Institute (ASMI). After surgery, the post-operative rehabilitation of the elbow is an important component of a successful outcome and eventual return to play. While complications including recurrent UCL tear remain low, revision UCL reconstruction and primary UCL repair with internal brace augmentation are surgical treatment options. The increasing prevalence of this procedure has been recognized especially in youth baseball players, which has led to further investigation into pitching mechanics and the prevention of these injuries.

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Correspondence to Jeffrey R. Dugas .

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Rothermich, M.A., Dugas, J.R. (2021). Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction: American Sports Medicine Institute Technique and Outcomes. In: Dines, J.S., Camp, C.L., Altchek, D.W. (eds) Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-69567-5_23

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-69567-5_23

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