Diagnosis
Preoperative advanced imaging modalities such as MRI, magnetic resonance arthrography, and stress ultrasound are essential for assessing the extent of UCL injury and the quality of remaining ligament tissue, guiding the choice between repair and reconstruction [PMID:39864679].
Management
Large national database assessment indicates that UCL repair carries a significantly higher risk of revision surgery compared to UCL reconstruction, despite similar overall complication rates [PMID:39864679].
According to Dugas' indications, UCL reconstruction (potentially with suture tape augmentation) is preferred when there is complete or partial avulsion from the sublime tubercle or medial epicondyle, with intact ligament tissue quality, as determined by precise imaging [PMID:39864679].
References
1 Ciccotti MG. Editorial Commentary: Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair With Suture Tape Augmentation Versus Reconstruction Should Be Determined Using Precise Imaging and Indications. Arthroscopy : the journal of arthroscopic & related surgery : official publication of the Arthroscopy Association of North America and the International Arthroscopy Association 2025. link
1 papers cited of 3 indexed.