The elbow is a highly complex joint that connects with bones, tendons and cartilage – as well as ligaments that can be susceptible to injury. These are the tough bands of tissue that hold the elbow bones together, and there are several that can be torn due to an accident or overuse of the arm:  

• The medial collateral ligament on the inside of the elbow 
• The lateral collateral ligament on the outside of the elbow 
• The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) on the inner side of the upper arm 

The first two main elbow ligaments provide the main source of stability for the elbow, joining together the humerus (bone) in the upper arm and the ulna (bone) in the forearm. The UCL is the ligament most often injured – typically by repeated stress from overhead movement such as the throwing motion in baseball. However, numerous injuries can be caused by tendon and ligament tears around the elbow. Some will heal on their own, but it’s always a good idea to seek the opinion of an orthopaedic physician who can examine the area, make a proper diagnosis and recommend any necessary medical treatment. 

Elbow Ligament Repair 

A broad spectrum of treatments is available to repair an injured ligament of the elbow. For mild injuries, a nonsurgical approach that involves icing the injured area, isolating it with a sling and resting the limb may do the trick. Your doctor may also prescribe anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy (PT) to strengthen the area and improve your range of motion.  

But if nonsurgical treatments haven’t provided pain relief or restored functioning in the joint, a surgical approach may be recommended. More and more, patients are undergoing arthroscopy procedures to address a spectrum of elbow issues, from fractures and joint damage to osteoarthritis to torn or damaged ligaments. Because it is minimally invasive, the surgery can typically be done on an outpatient basis. 

What Is Tommy John Surgery (and Why Would You Need It)? 

Tommy John was a Major League Baseball pitcher in the 1970s who underwent a UCL procedure for a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his elbow. He beat the odds and went on to pitch successfully for another decade after the procedure. A tendon graft was reportedly used to replace the damaged ligament.  

Your doctor may suggest Tommy John surgery when surgical treatment is required. This treatment generally involves a surgical graft to replace the ligament with a tendon from elsewhere in the body. The physician will most likely attach the tendon to the bones with sutures or screws to hold it in place. Just as important is post-surgery rehabilitation, which may take months – longer if the surgeon discovers additional damage to the elbow. However, PT and persistence can do a lot to improve your range of motion and strengthen your elbow.  

When Would Elbow Reconstruction or Replacement (Arthroplasty) Be Recommended? 

Anything from rheumatoid arthritis to a traumatic injury can lead you to need elbow reconstruction or replacement surgery. Thousands of patients undergo elbow replacement surgery each year, either due to severe pain or to restore function to their arm. Either part of the joint or the entire joint may be replaced, depending on the extent of the damage. Undergoing a total elbow replacement surgery generally means that the damaged parts of the patient’s humerus and ulna are surgically replaced with artificial components. 

These surgeries tend to be highly successful. Joint replacement surgery often lasts years, although in some cases a second “revision” surgery will be recommended to repair a loosening joint or ease other symptoms. 

Talk to a Specialist Before Deciding Which Path to Take 

If you think you may need an elbow ligament repair or another type of joint surgery, consult with a specialist such as a shoulder and elbow surgeon. A qualified surgeon will be able to determine what treatment path is appropriate for your injury and can inform you about the risks as well as rewards of surgery. Reconstruction is a major surgery, and you’ll want to work with someone trustworthy who will be available to educate and support you during the post-surgery rehab process, as well. 

Elbow surgery patients at MidAmerica Orthopaedics get access to a team of award-winning physicians who are experts at the top of their field. Give us a call at (708) 237-7200, or request an appointment online today to get started on your road to recovery – and back to an active and fulfilling life.