gms | German Medical Science

Objectives/Interrogation: Ulnar Collateral Ligament (UCL) tears keep on increasing in overhead throwing athletes. The original and modified docking reconstruction techniques have been used since described by Dr. Jobe. We present a novel and optimized technique, which it might enhance the strength, stability and recovery of the reconstructed ligament. The comparative biomechanical results are discussed.

Methods: Ten matched pairs of human cadaveric elbows were loaded to failure at a flexion angle of 30 degrees and compressive rate of 14 mm/s. The specimens underwent reconstruction with an autologous palmaris longus graft using a standard Tommy John Technique and modified internal brace technique with a forked tip 4.75mm PEEK suture anchor.

Results and Conclusions: The average stiffness of the standard docking UCL technique was 27.3 ± 2.8 N/mm and FiberTape internal brace docking repair using a 4.75mm PEEK SwiveLock was 42.3 ± 8.5 N/mm. The mean stiffness of the FiberTape internal brace docking repair using a 4.75mm PEEK SwiveLock was statistically greater (p=0.044) than the standard docking technique. The average ultimate moment for the standard docking UCL technique was 29.7 ± 7.7 N-m and FiberTape internal brace docking repair using a 4.75mm PEEK SwiveLock was 42.6 ± 11.8 N-m.

These biomechanical results are encouraging, with significant improvement of the strength, which they might allowed for a faster recovery without compromise on the stability.