AANA19 Wrist & Elbow Access Pass-Blarney! – Internal Brace is the Answer-Dr. Jeffrey R. Dugas, M.D.

Blarney! – Internal Brace is the Answer-Dr. Jeffrey R. Dugas, M.D.

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The speaker reviews the history and outcomes of UCL (ulnar collateral ligament) repair versus reconstruction in athletes, specifically baseball players. Early repairs had poor results, leading to reconstruction becoming the standard. However, recent advances, including the internal brace technique developed with Arthrex, show promising outcomes. A study of 128 athletes found a 92% return-to-play rate at the same or higher level within six months, with high functional scores and few complications. Repair candidates have good tissue quality and appositional injuries. The internal brace repair may be a superior option, especially in younger athletes or as a revision surgery. More data are expected as use expands.

Asset Caption

Concurrent Scientific Session II: Wrist and Elbow 5.3.2019

Keywords

UCL repair

UCL reconstruction

internal brace technique

return-to-play rate

Arthrex