2021 AANA/ASES Specialty Session-Don’t Forget About UCL Repair

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Michael Freehill discusses UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) reconstruction and repair in throwing athletes, focusing on improving performance, repair sustainability, and return-to-play timing. He highlights distal tear challenges due to limited blood supply. Recent advances include UCL repair with internal bracing, showing quicker return-to-play and good outcomes comparable to reconstruction. Studies by Jeff Dugas and others reveal promising results but emphasize the need for long-term data, especially in elite athletes. Emerging biologic scaffolds may improve healing. Freehill’s approach tailors treatment—repair with internal brace for certain tears and reconstruction when necessary—considering patient specifics and structural integrity.

Asset Caption

Michael T. Freehill, M.D.

Keywords

UCL reconstruction

UCL repair

internal bracing

throwing athletes

return-to-play timing