Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction Technique Utilizing Suture Tape Augmentation

Abstract

The prevalence of ulnar collateral ligament injuries and reconstructions among overhead throwing athletes has significantly risen in recent years. Surgical reconstruction has become the main treatment modality for athletes who have failed conservative treatment and wish to return to their sport. There has been an increased interest in graft augmentation in ligament reconstruction surgeries as surgeons search for ways to decrease the chance of graft failure. Augmented graft techniques have been described for other procedures. We present a technique that incorporates a cross-linked suture tape into either a palmaris longus or gracilis tendon autograft or allograft for ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. This may allow for a biomechanically stronger construct because it appears this is the case in other settings. The goal is that this would lead to decreased rates of failure or possibly allow athletes to return at an accelerated rate.

Sternoclavicular reconstruction with “sternal docking” technique and suture tape augmentation in an elite gymnast: a case report

“…The use of tapes for augmentation in reconstruction with grafts has been implemented in reconstructions of the anterior cruciate ligament, medial patellofemoral ligament, and ulnar collateral ligament of the elbow among others. 14 , 5 , 11 In biomechanical studies, 2 augmentation with ultra-high-molecular-weight tapes has demonstrated a decrease in the elongation and rupture of the graft, particularly in those of smaller size, as is the case of the graft used in this case. Although there is a potential for suture cutout at the bone tunnels, to our knowledge, this has not yet been reported when using sutures for graft augmentation, and cortical density of the sternum and the medial clavicle would make suture cutout unlikely in a young patient.…”

Lateral and Medial Elbow Instability: Graft Reconstruction Techniques

“…The technique for MUCL reconstruction has been modified with various techniques including the docking technique and the modified Jobe technique [5]. A relatively new modification to current techniques includes a synthetic graft augmentation with cross-linked suture tape meant to achieve a stronger construct and to decrease the chance of graft failure [6].…”