Editorial Commentary: Just a Bit Outside: Elbow Ulnar Collateral Ligament Research Requires Critical Appraisal.

Abstract

Elbow ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction (UCLR) in Major League Baseball players using either a docking technique or a modified Jobe technique (modified to avoid flexor-pronator detachment) is effective treatment in experienced hands. The study of UCLR in Major League Baseball players requires recording and reporting of the actual number of athletes treated by individual surgeons using different techniques, to determine practice patterns. Absent these data, and with poor response rate by the solicited physicians (41%), survey results may be misleading. In addition, although transient ulnar neuritis may occur during UCLR, permanent ulnar neuropathy is exceedingly rare.