Spring 2020 Fellows Webinars-UCL Repair and Augmentation with Collagen-Coated Fiber Tape (Internal Brace) in Overhead Throwing Athletes

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The transcript of the video is a presentation by Dr. Jeff Douglas on the topic of ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) repair in sports medicine. He begins by welcoming attendees to the multi-institutional Sports Medicine Fellows Conference and thanks them for joining. He asks attendees to mute their audio for better clarity, as the conference is being recorded.<br /><br />Dr. Douglas introduces the first speaker, Jeff Douglas from ASMI, who will discuss a technique he has developed for UCL repair. He acknowledges the difficulty faced by fellows in their education during the current times and expresses gratitude to the faculty and fellowship directors for volunteering their time.<br /><br />Dr. Douglas talks about the history of UCL repair and reconstruction, citing earlier studies and experiences of renowned surgeons such as Lyle Norwood and Frank Jobe. He explains that UCL repair was largely abandoned due to poor outcomes compared to reconstruction.<br /><br />He then introduces the technique of UCL repair using the internal brace, a method developed by Gordon McKay. He discusses the results of cadaver studies and cyclic testing, showing that the internal brace repair is comparable to reconstruction.<br /><br />Dr. Douglas explains the candidacy for UCL repair, establishing that good tissue quality is crucial. He advises against repairing in cases of poor tissue quality or significant bone problems. He emphasizes the importance of evaluating x-rays and MRI scans in determining candidacy.<br /><br />He discusses the surgical technique, including the placement of anchors and sutures to repair the ligament. He also addresses the issue of ulnar nerve transposition and the position of the humeral tunnel.<br /><br />Dr. Douglas shares the results of a follow-up study on UCL repairs, showing that 92% of patients were able to return to play at the same or higher level. He also discusses the KJOC scores and patient satisfaction with the procedure.<br /><br />He advises caution when considering UCL repair and emphasizes that reconstruction is still a reliable and predictable option. He concludes by highlighting the importance of tissue quality and the need for further research on ligament remodeling.<br /><br />In summary, Dr. Jeff Douglas discusses the technique of UCL repair using the internal brace. He emphasizes the importance of good tissue quality and provides surgical and patient outcome details.

Asset Subtitle

April 8, 2020

Keywords

UCL repair

sports medicine

ligament

internal brace

cadaver studies

surgical technique

patient outcome

tissue quality

ligament remodeling