Ulnar Collateral Ligament Reconstruction of the Elbow: The Docking Technique
Reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament is one of the most commonly performed surgeries in overhead throwing athletes. Since its initial description, the procedure has undergone a number of technical modifications and advancements, resulting in multiple techniques for ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction. One of the most commonly performed ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction methods is the docking technique. The advantages of the docking technique include minimal injury to the flexor-pronator mass, avoidance of the ulnar nerve, robust graft tensioning, and decreased bone removed from the medial epicondyle compared with previously described techniques.
This video demonstrates reconstruction of the ulnar collateral ligament via the docking technique. If precise surgical steps are followed and postoperative rehabilitation is appropriately progressed, the procedure reliably returns athletes to competitive throwing. In addition, the video describes key takeaway points and clinical outcomes for the procedure.