Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Research Articles

A Novel Surgical Treatment Management Algorithm for Elbow Posterolateral Rotatory Instability (PLRI) Based on the Common Extensor Origin Integrity.

Background: Here, we introduce a comprehensive treatment algorithm for posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) of the elbow, a condition affecting elbow mobility. We outline a diagnostic approach and a novel surgical management plan through the arthroscopic surgeon's point of view. Methods: The central focus of this management approach is the integrity of common extensor origin (CEO). High clinical suspicion must be evident to diagnose PLRI. Special clinical and imaging tests can confirm PLRI but sometimes the final confirmation is established during the arthroscopic treatment. The most appropriate treatment is determined by the degree of CEO integrity. Results: The treatment strategy varies with the CEO's condition: intact or minor tears require arthroscopic lateral collateral ligament imbrication, while extensive tears may need plication reinforced with imbrication or, in cases of retraction, a triceps tendon autograft reconstruction of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament alongside CEO repair. These approaches aim to manage residual instability and are complemented using a tailored rehabilitation protocol to optimize functional outcomes. Conclusion: PLRI is a unique clinical condition and should be treated likewise. This algorithm offers valuable insights for diagnosing and treating PLRI, enhancing therapeutic decision-making.

Surgical treatment of coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus with an intact lateral epicondyle by the lateral combined approach

BackgroundCoronal shear fractures of the distal humerus are not only rare and prone to misdiagnosis, but their surgical treatment can be challenging. We aimed to investigate the feasibility of exposing distal humeral coronal shear fractures with a combined lateral approach that preserves the extensors and lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) and to analyze the clinical efficacy of open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) in the treatment of these injuries. MethodsWe included 45 patients who sustained coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus with the lateral epicondyle intact and were treated with ORIF from January 2013 to August 2020. The fractures were exposed by the lateral combined approach in which the tendons involving the common extensor, the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU), and the LUCL were preserved. Two observation windows were formed anterior to and posterior to these tendons and the LUCL was used to achieve fracture reduction. Countersunk screws, with or without a plate placed on the posterior lateral condyle, were used to fix the fragments. The functional outcomes of these patients were reviewed and assessed with physical and radiographic examinations, range of motion (ROM) measurements, and self-evaluation Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores. ResultsIn total, 40 patients were followed up with for over 1 year and were included in the final analysis. The mean follow-up duration was 42±30 months (range, 12–107 months). The patients’ mean age was 42 years (range, 14–74 years). According to the Dubberley Classification, there were 15 type I, 17 type II, and 8 type III fractures. At the final follow-up, the mean flexion–extension arc was 131° (range, 65–150) and mean pronation and supination was 73° (range, 45–80) and 71° (range, 40–80), respectively. The mean MEPI score was 88 (range, 61–97) points; the results were excellent in 21, good in 13, fair in 4, and poor in 2 patients. The mean DASH score was 11 (range, 0–42) points. Neither functional score nor range of movement was associated with age, sex, fracture type, injury type, or surgical timing. ConclusionReduction and stable fixation with internal fixation for coronal shear fractures of the distal humerus can be achieved by the lateral combined approach. Early functional mobilization allows for satisfactory restoration of elbow function.

Irreducible Fracture Dislocation of the Elbow Due to Medial Epicondyle Entrapment Associated with Median Nerve Palsy in Adult: A case report

Purpose: Medial epicondyle fractures are common elbow injuries in pediatric and adolescent population. However, this condition is extremely rare in adults, with only a few cases reported in the literatures. This report presents the case of an adult patient with an irreducible fracture dislocation of the elbow due to intra-articular entrapment of the medial epicondyle associated with median nerve palsy. Methods: A case of 36-year-old man presented with posterolateral fracture dislocation of the left elbow with displaced medial epicondyle and median nerve palsy. Closed reduction was attempted, resulting in a grossly unstable elbow. Post-reduction radiographic study demonstrated the articular incongruence with the entrapped medial epicondyle. The patient underwent an open reduction and median nerve exploration. A fragment of the medial epicondyle was found comminuted and repaired using our novel technique with suture anchors. The lateral ulnar collateral ligament was repaired because of varus residual instability. The dislocated elbow was successfully reduced. Results: At 6 months follow-up, the elbow was stable with nearly full range of motion, although radiographic studies demonstrated union fractures with partially fragment resorption. Both sensation and motor function of the median nerve were gradually recovered. Conclusions: We presented a novel fixation technique for a rare case of irreducible fracture dislocation of the elbow due to intra-articular entrapment of the medial epicondyle associated with median nerve palsy in adults. The median nerve should be explored in every case, and delayed diagnosis should be avoided, which may lead to devastating complications.

Concomitant internal joint stabilizer augmentation with isometric lateral ulnar collateral ligament repair for unstable elbow dislocations: a surgical technique

Complex unstable elbow fracture dislocations can be a challenging pathology to treat for orthopedic surgeons. Historical treatment methods of persistent elbow instability after bony and ligamentous pathology have been addressed include prolonged immobilization, trans-articular pinning, and static or hinged external fixators. However, they can be associated with significant complications and unacceptable rates of unsatisfactory clinical outcomes. As a result, a movable internal fixator known as an internal joint stabilizer (IJS) was developed to help mitigate these complications. The IJS, when utilized, often is inserted at the origin of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL). The rotating humeral pin of the IJS must be placed in the elbow’s center axis of rotation at the distal humerus to function properly. The competition for the same footprint makes concomitant anatomic repair of the LUCL challenging. This paper seeks to describe a surgical technique that allows for isometric humeral pin placement of the IJS without sacrificing the ability to restore the LUCL to its anatomic footprint by combining the LUCL suture anchor and IJS humeral pin sites.

Clinical and Functional Results of Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Repair for Posterolateral Rotatory Instability of the Elbow.

Background Posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow arises from damage to the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL). While various methods exist for reconstructing or repairing the LUCL's attachment to the humerus, the most effective approach remains debatable. This study aims to assess the outcomes of directly repairing the LUCL when the injury occurs at the humeral attachment. Methodology This retrospective study, conducted at the Royal Berkshire Foundation Trust NHS hospital in Reading, UK, assessed outcomes through a review of 15 patients who underwent direct repair of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament between 2017 and 2022, evaluating a range of motion, the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, and the Nestor grading system. Results This study included nine males and six females, with an average age of 38.8 years. Most LUCL injuries arose from elbow dislocation (46.7%). The average follow-up period for patients was 26 months. At the final assessment, the mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score reached 99. According to the Nestor grading system, 12 patients achieved excellent results, and three had good outcomes. On average, there was an 11.3° loss of final extension and 5° of final flexion, yet achieving a comparable pronation-supination arch to the contralateral side. Conclusion Direct repair of the LUCL for elbow posterolateral rotary instability yielded excellent outcomes, obviating ligament reconstruction. Recognized as minimally invasive, it accelerates recovery, minimizes trauma, and offers a cost-effective procedure for managing instability.

Suture Button Repair for Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament in Terrible Triad Injuries: Surgical Technique

Terrible triad injuries are typically treated surgically to restore elbow stability, as the radial head acts as a secondary stabilizer to valgus stress, while the coronoid provides stability against posterior elbow dislocations. The lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) is also commonly injured in terrible triad of the elbow injuries, and if not repaired, leads to posterolateral rotatory instability. Depending on the fracture pattern and size, the radial head fracture may be treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF), arthroplasty, or excision, whereas the coronoid fracture is most commonly treated with ORIF. If treated, these injuries are managed prior to LUCL fixation to avoid stressing the LUCL repair. We describe a technique for treatment of a LUCL injury with a suture button. When repairing the LUCL, a Kocher approach is used to visualize the LUCL footprint, which is then reattached to the insertion point on the lateral epicondyle using a suture button. The purpose of this study was to provide a step-by-step approach to using this surgical technique and an associated postoperative protocol.

Anconeus-sparing minimally invasive approach for lateral ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction using a triceps tendon autograft is an effective and safe treatment for chronic posterolateral instability of the elbow

Surgical treatment helps to restore stability of the elbow in patients with posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI). The anconeus muscle is one of the most important active stabilizers against PLRI. A minimally invasive anconeus-sparing approach for lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) reconstruction using a triceps tendon autograft has been previously described. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcome of this intervention and identify risk factors that influenced the clinical and patient-reported outcomes. Sixty-one patients with chronic PLRI and no previous elbow surgery who underwent surgical reconstruction of the LUCL using a triceps tendon autograft in a minimally invasive anconeus-sparing approach during 2012 and 2018 were evaluated. Outcome measures included a clinical examination and the Oxford Elbow Score (OES) and the Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) questionnaires. Subjective patient outcomes were evaluated with the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the Subjective Elbow Value (SEV). Integrity of the common extensor tendons and centering of the radial head were assessed preoperatively on standardized magnetic resonance images (MRIs). Fifty-two patients were available at final follow-up. The mean age of patients was 51±12 years with a mean follow-up of 53±14 months (range 20-76). Clinical examination after surgery (n=41) showed no clinical signs of instability in 98% of the patients (P<.001) and a nonsignificant improvement in range of motion. OES, MEPS, and VAS scores averaged 40±10 of 48 points, 92±12 of 100 points, and 1±2 points, respectively, all corresponding with good or excellent outcomes. The SEV was 88%, indicating very high satisfaction with the surgery. Only 1 patient had revision surgery due to pain, and there were no reported postoperative complications in this cohort. A radial head subluxation in the MRI correlated significantly with worse postoperative outcomes. The anconeus-sparing minimally invasive technique for posterolateral stabilization of the elbow using a triceps tendon autograft is an effective and safe treatment for chronic posterolateral instability of the elbow with substantial improvements in elbow function and pain relief with a very low rate of persistent clinical instability.

Direct Anterior Bone Block Grafting for Coronoid Bone Loss and Dysplasia

Background: Critical coronoid bone loss (CCBL) can be the key factor of elbow instability, making bony reconstruction essential. Coronoid bone grafting (CBG) is challenging, with a paucity of descriptions in the literature. We present direct anterior CBG in a patient with instability, CCBL (&gt;40%), lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) insufficiency, and ligamentous laxity who underwent LUCL reconstruction in the same setting. Indications: Isolated ligament reconstruction has a high failure rate in cases with CCBL and therefore requires additional bone grafting. The diagnosis of CCBL is made with lateral radiographs and further quantified by computed tomography imaging. Instability can be best assessed objectively during arthroscopy with a switching stick. CBG performed with an anterior approach facilitates direct access with advantages for plate and screw positioning and access to the proximal radio-ulnar joint. Technique Description: First, LUCL reconstruction was performed. After harvesting of the graft from the iliac crest, the coronoid was exposed with a direct anterior approach. The incision starts centrally medial to the biceps tendon (BT) in the flexion crease extending distally (9 cm). Ligation of multiple vessels (leash of Henry) is required. The deep dissection is continued between the bicipital aponeurosis and BT. Blunt and flat Langenbeck-type retractors are used with care, laterally (BT/radial nerve) and medially (aponeurosis/median nerve). The brachialis muscle is exposed and longitudinally split in line with its fibers, gaining access to the capsule. Harmful retraction on either side of the split has to be avoided. The capsule is incised as a Z-plasty, the coronoid exposed from the joint in the distal direction prior to freshening up the graft bed. The graft is held in place with a wire joystick, sculpted, and temporarily fixed. Joint congruency, stability, and a range of motion (ROM) are checked prior to definitive fixation with a 2.4-mm buttress plate and screws. Results: The coronoid process height was successfully reconstructed from &lt;60% to 100% with durable elbow stability (&gt;1 year), free ROM, and high patient satisfaction. Conclusion: CBG can be standardized and facilitated with a direct anterior approach as a key element for successful elbow stabilization in the setting of CCBL. Patient Consent Disclosure Statement: The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.

Lateral ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction enhancing secondary stabilizers in chronic PLRI of the elbow provides good to excellent clinical results with no recurrent instability

PurposeThe adopted treatment for chronic elbow PLRI is lateral ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. However, the most frequently reported complication after primary reconstruction is recurrent instability – up to 25%. It was thus hypothesized that enhancing the secondary stabilizers will provide successful results with a lower rate of recurrent instability in comparison to techniques with primary reconstruction only. This study aimed to demonstrate a novel surgical technique involving secondary stabilizers. MethodsIn this retrospective study of 29 cases with chronic PLRI the mean duration of symptoms was 39.6 ±4.9 months. The mean age was 47.9 years with mainly male patients. The surgeries were performed by one senior surgeon at a single institution. The Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS) and the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (DASH) were recorded. ResultsThe mean follow-up was 36.8 ±7.7 months. The MEPS score improved significantly from 59.8 ±13.1 to 84.7 ±7.6 (p<0.001). 23/29 patients (79.2%) had converted to good and excellent results (MEPS >75 points). The DASH score improved from 40.8 ±4.6 to 20.9 ±7.2 (p<0.001). The total complication rate was 10.3% (N=3). No recurrent instability was recorded in comparison to 12.2% for primary reconstruction only, as reported in the literature (p<0.05). ConclusionEnhancing the secondary stabilizers by utilizing an adjacently located autograft provided good and excellent results with no recurrent instability. This novel surgical procedure is easy to reproduce and provides a safe and reliable alternative in cases of chronic PLRI when compared to techniques with primary reconstruction only.

Surgical Treatment of Posterolateral Rotational Instability of the Elbow: a Systematic Review

Posterolateral rotational instability (PLRI) of the elbow joint can occur acutely as a result of dislocation of the bones of the forearm, and also be chronic, for example, after inadequate healing of a previous rupture of the lateral ligamentous complex, in particular the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL). It is necessary to take into account that, as a result of repeated microtraumas, persistent pain syndrome and recurrence of dislocation develop, which can lead to disability. We conducted a systematic review of the literature according to the protocol outlined in the PRISMA guidelines. From 1,903 publications, 11 studies were selected that met our criteria and assessed the results of treatment of 181 patients. The main reason for the development of PLRI was simple traumatic dislocation of the forearm bones (37.5%). Of the studies that assessed the elbow joint using the MEPS, 86.5% of patients had excellent or good results, with a mean MEBS score of 91 points. Before surgery, pain syndrome was present in 131 patients (87.3%) out of 150, and in the postoperative period it was observed in 55 (36.6%) out of 150 (p=0.01). The incidence of recurrent instability after surgery was observed in 6.6% of patients. A review of the literature on the problem of the elbow joint shows that this problem has not been fully studied, treatment strategies differ and should be performed based on the surgeon’s experience and available data, however, it has been proven that the key to the stability of the elbow joint is the LUCL, which requires its restoration through its refixation or plastic surgery.

Surgical approaches to the capitellum: a comparative anatomic study

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the humeral capitellum is an important cause of elbow disability in young athletes. Large and unstable lesions sometimes require joint reconstruction with osteochondral autograft. Several approaches have been described to expose the capitellum for the purpose of treating OCD. The posterior anconeus-splitting approach and the lateral approach with or without release of the lateral ligamentous complex are the most frequently used for this indication. The surface accessible by these approaches has not been widely studied. This study compared the extent of the articular surface of the capitellum that could be exposed with the Kocher approach (without ligament release) vs. the posterior anconeus-splitting approach. A secondary outcome was the measurement of any additional area that could be reached with lateral ulnar collateral ligament release (Wrightington approach). The 3 approaches were performed on 8 adult cadaveric elbows: first, the Kocher approach; then, the anconeus-splitting approach; and finally, the Wrightington approach. The visible articular surface was marked out after completion of each approach. The mean articular surface of the capitellum was 708 mm2 (range, 573-830 mm2). The mean visible articular surface was 49% (range, 43%-60%) of the total surface with the Kocher approach, 74% (range, 61%-90%) with the posterior anconeus-splitting approach, and 93% (range, 91%-97%) with the Wrightington approach. Although the Kocher approach provided access to the anterior part of the capitellum, the anconeus-splitting approach showed adequate exposure to the posterior three-quarters of the articular surface and overlapped the most posterior part of the Kocher approach. A combination of the 2 lateral ulnar collateral ligament-preserving approaches allowed access to 100% of the joint surface. Most OCD lesions are located in the posterior area of the capitellum and can therefore be reached with the anconeus-splitting approach. When OCD lesions are located anteriorly, the Kocher approach without ligament release is efficient. A combination of these 2 approaches enabled the entirety of the joint surface to be viewed.

No difference in torque load to failure between split anconeus fascia transfer and autograft palmaris longus tendon for reconstruction of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament

The split anconeus fascia transfer (SAFT) is an option for reconstruction of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL) in chronic posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) of the elbow with potential advantages of using only local tissue within the surgical exposure and not requiring ulnar fixation. This study aimed to assess SAFT strength compared to a traditional free graft reconstruction in a PLRI biomechanical model. To measure biomechanical strength, eight cadaveric upper extremity pairs were utilized. Within each pair, one specimen was randomly assigned to LUCL reconstruction with autograft palmaris longus and the other to SAFT reconstruction. Torque load to failure was assessed on a load frame with the elbow in 30 degrees of flexion, 5 degrees of valgus, and 25 N axial load as the elbow was brought into external rotation. Torque load to failure was compared between the two reconstruction techniques. No difference was found in the torque load to failure between SAFT specimens compared to palmaris longus autograft specimens (mean 14.6±4.4 Nm vs. mean 11.3±3.9 Nm; P=.16). In this biomechanical study, the SAFT LUCL reconstruction provided torque load to failure similar to that of the traditional technique. These findings suggest that the SAFT technique warrants continued study as a biomechanically sound option for LUCL reconstruction in the setting of elbow PLRI.

Prosthetic resurfacing of engaging posterior capitellar defects in recurrent posterolateral rotatory instability of the elbow.

Posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) is a common mechanism of recurrent elbow instability. While the essential lesion is a deficiency in the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), there are often associated concomitant bony lesions, such as an Osborne-Cotterill lesions (posterior capitellar fractures) and marginal radial head fractures, that compromise stability. Currently, there is no standard treatment for posterior capitellar deficiency associated with recurrent PLRI. We conducted a retrospective review of five patients with recurrent PLRI of the elbow associated with a posterior capitellar impaction fracture engaging with the radial head during normal range of motion. The patients were treated surgically with LUCL reconstruction or repair and off-label reconstruction of the capitellar joint surface using a small metal prosthesis designed for metatarsal head resurfacing (HemiCAP toe classic). Five patients (three adolescent males, two adult females) were treated between 2007 and 2018. At a median follow-up of 5 years, all patients had complete relief of their symptomatic instability. No patients had pain at rest, but two patients had mild pain (visual analog scale 1-3) during physical activity. Three patients rated their elbow as normal, one as almost normal, and one as greatly improved. On short-term radiographic follow-up there were no signs of implant loosening. None of the patients needed reoperation. Recurrent PLRI of the elbow associated with an engaging posterior capitellar lesion can be treated successfully by LUCL reconstruction and repair and filling of the capitellar defect with a metal prosthesis. This treatment option has excellent clinical results in the short-medium term. Level of evidence: IV.

Posterolateral Rotatory Instability Develops Following the Modified Kocher Approach and Does Not Resolve Following Interval Repair.

The modified Kocher and extensor digitorum communis (EDC)-splitting intervals are commonly utilized to approach the lateral elbow. Iatrogenic injury to the lateral ulnar collateral ligament may result in posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI). in the present cadaveric study, we (1) evaluated lateral elbow stability following the use of these approaches and (2) assessed the accuracy of static lateral elbow radiographs as a diagnostic tool for PLRI. Ten matched-pair cadaveric upper-extremity specimens (n = 20) were randomly assigned to Kocher or EDC-splitting approaches. Specimens underwent evaluation pre-dissection, post-dissection, and following repair of the surgical interval. Clinical evaluation of lateral elbow stability was performed with the lateral pivot-shift maneuver. Radiographic radiocapitellar displacement was evaluated with the fully extended hanging arm test and on lateral elbow 30° flexion radiographs. Paired Wilcoxon signed-rank tests with Bonferroni correction were utilized to compare groups. All Kocher group specimens (10 of 10) developed PLRI on the pivot-shift maneuver following dissection. No EDC-splitting group specimens (0 of 10) developed instability with pivot-shift testing. The fully extended hanging arm test showed no difference in radiocapitellar displacement between groups (p > 0.008). Lateral elbow 30° flexion radiographs in the Kocher group showed an increased radiocapitellar displacement difference (mean, 8.46 mm) following dissection compared with the pre-dissection baseline (p < 0.008). Following repair of the Kocher interval, the radiocapitellar displacement (mean, 6.43 mm) remained greater than pre-dissection (mean, 2.26 mm; p < 0.008). In the EDC-splitting group, no differences were detected in radiocapitellar displacement on lateral elbow radiographs with either the fully extended hanging arm or lateral elbow 30° flexion positions. The Kocher approach produced PLRI that did not return to baseline conditions following repair of the surgical interval. The EDC-splitting approach did not cause elbow instability clinically or radiographically. The hanging arm test was not reliable for the detection of PLRI. The Kocher interval for lateral elbow exposure results in iatrogenic PLRI that is not detectable on the hanging arm test and that does not return to baseline stability following repair of the surgical interval.

A Simple and Versatile Test for Elbow Posterolateral Rotatory Instability.

Posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI) results from lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LCL) deficiency. The lateral pivot shift test is used to diagnose PLRI but can be difficult to perform and is poorly tolerated. We present a new maneuver, the Posterior Radiocapitellar Subluxation Test (PRST), that we believe is easier to perform. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy and reproducibility of the PRST with the lateral pivot shift test. We obtained 10 cadaveric upper extremity specimens, performed a Kocher approach on each, released the LCL origin in 5, then closed. The specimens were randomized, and 3 attending orthopedic surgeons and 1 resident blindly performed the PRST then the lateral pivot shift test after re-randomization and assessed presence or absence of PLRI. This process was repeated the following day. The data for each test were analyzed for sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy. For the blinded testing when comparing PRST with the pivot shift test, overall accuracy was 77.5%, compared with 67.5% (P = .03), sensitivity was 75.0%, compared with 50.0% (P = .003), and specificity was 80.0%, compared with 85.0% (P = .55). Conclusions: The PRST appears to be at least as accurate as the lateral pivot shift test, with comparable intraobserver and interobserver reliability.

Mid-term results of the treatment of acute postero-lateral rotational instability of the elbow joint

Background: Dislocations of the forearm are rare injuries with the annual incidence of 6.1 cases per 100 000 population. Postero-lateral rotational instability is the most common complication after the conservative treatment of forearm dislocations. To restore the congruency and provide early movements in the elbow joint, the primary repair or reconstruction of the damaged ligaments of the elbow are required. Aim: to evaluate the clinical and functional results after the surgical repair of the elbow joint ligaments in acute postero-lateral rotational instability. Methods: The study was based on a retrospective analysis of a series of clinical cases, including 17 patients with acute postero-lateral rotational instability, among them 5 simple forearm dislocations, 9 fracture-dislocations of the forearm and 3 fractures of the radial head. Refixation of the lateral ulnar ligament was performed with anchor fixation or bone tunnels. The evaluation was performed using the clinical aspects (the lateral pivot shift test, the range of motion), according to the scale for the evaluation of the elbow joint functional condition (MEPS), Oxford scale of the elbow joint evaluation (OEC), the X-ray results were also estimated. Results: In all the cases the elbow joint stability had been achieved, according to the X-ray and clinical aspects. In 4 cases, additional plasty of the medial collateral ligament was needed and performed after the restoration of the lateral ligament complex. According to the MEPS scale, 58% of the achieved results were excellent, 35% were good and 5.8% were satisfactory. Conclusion: The restoration of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament complex is a safe and effective procedure, which restores the elbow joint stability and allows the patients to return to full physical activity and avoid the development of postero-lateral rotational joint instability.

Technical trick: buttress plate fixation of comminuted capitellum fractures with combined suture repair of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament

Technical trick: buttress plate fixation of comminuted capitellum fractures with combined suture repair of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament

Arthroscopic Modified Elbow Lateral Collateral Ligament Imbrication: An Operative Technique

When the lateral collateral ligament (LCL) complex fails to support the radiocapitellar and ulnohumeral joints in advanced stages of insufficiency, the patient experiences posterolateral rotatory instability (PLRI). Open lateral ulnar collateral ligament repair with a ligamentous graft has been the standard treatment for PLRI. Despite producing good clinical stability rates, this method is associated with significant lateral soft-tissue dissection and a lengthy recovery period. By fastening the LCL to its humeral insertion, arthroscopic imbrication of the LCL can increase stability. The senior author modified this technique. With the aid of a passer, the LCL complex, lateral capsule, and anconeus may be weaved with a single (doubled) suture, secured with a Nice knot. LCL complex imbrication may be used to restore stability and improve pain and function in patients with grade I and II PLRI.

Elbow Kinematics and Function Following Treatment with Open Arthrolysis and Hinged External Fixator.

Open arthrolysis (OA) combined with hinged external fixator (HEF) is a promising surgical option for patients with elbow stiffness. This study aimed to investigate elbow kinematics and function following a combined treatment with OA and HEF in elbow stiffness cases. Patients treated with OA with or without HEF due to elbow stiffness were recruited between August 2017 and July 2019. Elbow flexion-extension motion and function (Mayo elbow performance scores, MEPS) were recorded and compared between patients with and without HEF during a 1-year follow-up period. Additionally, those with HEF were assessed by dual fluoroscopy at week 6 postoperatively. Flexion-extension and varus-valgus motions, as well as ligament insertion distances of the anterior medial collateral ligament (AMCL) and lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), were compared between the surgical and intact sides. This study included 42 patients, of which 12 with HEF demonstrated a similar flexion-extension angle and range of motion (ROM) and MEPS as the other patients. In patients with HEF, the surgical elbows showed limitations in flexion-extension (maximal flexion, 120.5° ± 5.3° vs 140.4° ± 6.8°; maximal extension, 13.1° ± 6.0° vs 6.4° ± 3.0°; ROM, 107.4° ± 9.9° vs 134.0° ± 6.8°; all Ps < 0.01) compared with the contralateral sides. During elbow flexion, a gradual valgus-to-varus transition of the ulna, increase in the AMCL insertion distance, and steady change in the LUCL insertion distance were observed, with no significant differences between the bilateral sides. Patients treated with OA and HEF demonstrated similar elbow flexion-extension motion and function to those treated with OA alone. Although the use of HEF could not restore an intact flexion-extension ROM and might result in some minor but not significant changes in kinematics, it contributed to clinical outcomes comparable to that of the treatment with OA alone.

The spin move to facilitate antegrade coronoid fixation in terrible triad injuries.

The role of the coronoid process in elbow instability has been established. When necessary, coronoid fixation can be challenging. Placing fixation perpendicular to the fracture requires achieving a trajectory as close as possible to the midline axis of the proximal ulna, either from anterior to posterior or vice versa. The aim of this study was to determine whether coronoid exposure-and the ability to place fixation from anterior to posterior-is improved via a lateral extensor-splitting approach with forearm supination, that is, the "spin move," with progressive stages of lateral elbow instability. The lateral extensor-splitting approach was performed on 9 cadaveric upper extremities. A 0.157-mm (0.062-inch) wire was drilled perpendicularly into the lateral aspect of the humerus just proximal to the lateral epicondyle. A second wire was drilled into the tip of the coronoid, aiming for a drill trajectory as close as possible to the midline axis. The angle between the 2 wires was measured as the initial angle. Three stages of progressive lateral elbow instability were produced by sequential release of the lateral ulnar collateral ligament (LUCL), common extensor origin (CEO), and posterior capsule. At each stage, the spin move was performed and the angle between the 2 wires was measured. The difference between this angle and the initial angle was calculated, with the average value reported as the Δ angle for each stage. The average difference between each stage and the next stage was reported. The spin move resulted in Δ angles of 10.3° with the LUCL released, 20° with the CEO released, and 29.1° with the posterior capsule released. Progressing from LUCL release to CEO release to posterior capsule release, the Δ angle between the K-wires increased an average of 9.6° from the LUCL stage to the CEO stage and 9.1° from the CEO stage to the posterior capsule stage. The spin move is a simple maneuver that can improve exposure of the coronoid process regardless of the degree of elbowinstability. This may facilitate a more perpendicular screw, bone tunnel, or suture anchor trajectory via the lateral approach, reducing the need for posterior-to-anterior fixation. The improved exposure is inferred from the differences in the K-wire angles with and without the spin move. This study has also quantified the change in coronoid exposure using the angles of the wires with progressive release of the LUCL, CEO, and posterior capsule. If necessary, releasing the CEO or posterior capsule with eventual repair may allow improved coronoid fixation from the lateral approach.