Tommy John surgery, formally known as ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) reconstruction, is a surgical procedure to replace a torn or damaged UCL in the elbow. This ligament is crucial for stabilizing the elbow during overhead throwing motions, particularly common in baseball pitchers.
The procedure involves replacing the torn UCL with a tendon taken from another part of the patient's body (autograft) or from a deceased donor (allograft). Common autograft sources include tendons from the forearm, hamstring, or foot.
Here's a breakdown of the key aspects of Tommy John surgery:
- Purpose: To restore stability and function to the elbow joint, allowing athletes (especially baseball players) to return to throwing activities.
- Ligament Involved: The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), located on the inner side of the elbow.
- Procedure: Replacement of the damaged UCL with a tendon graft.
- Graft Source: Autograft (tendon from the patient's own body) or allograft (tendon from a deceased donor).
- Recovery: The rehabilitation process is lengthy, typically lasting 12-18 months, and involves a structured program of physical therapy to regain strength, range of motion, and throwing mechanics.
In summary, Tommy John surgery is a reconstructive procedure that repairs a damaged UCL in the elbow using a tendon graft, aiming to restore elbow stability and allow athletes to return to competitive throwing.
