Ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction (UCLR), also known as Tommy John Surgery, is a surgical graft procedure where the ulnar collateral ligament in the elbow is replaced with a tendon from elsewhere in the patient's body. The need for UCLR is most commonly associated with sports, particularly baseball.

History

The procedure is named after Tommy John, a former professional baseball player who was the first person to undergo this surgery in 1974. The surgery was performed by Dr. Frank Jobe, a renowned orthopedic surgeon who pioneered the procedure.

Indications

Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction is indicated when there is a tear in the ulnar collateral ligament that does not respond to non-surgical treatments such as rest, physical therapy, and medication. This condition is most commonly seen in athletes who participate in sports that involve overhead throwing motions, such as baseball and javelin throw.

Procedure

During the UCLR procedure, a surgeon makes an incision over the medial epicondyle area, removes the damaged ligament, and then replaces it with a tendon harvested from another part of the patient's body, often the forearm or hamstring. The tendon graft is then threaded through holes drilled in the humerus and ulna in a figure-eight pattern and secured.

Recovery

Following surgery, patients typically undergo a lengthy rehabilitation process that includes physical therapy to restore strength and flexibility to the elbow. Full recovery can take anywhere from 12 to 18 months.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, nerve damage, loss of range of motion, and failure of the graft.

See Also

• Tommy John
• Frank Jobe
• Elbow
• Baseball
• Javelin throw
• Humerus
• Ulna