MRI of the reconstructed ulnar collateral ligament.
OBJECTIVE
We are often asked to evaluate the postoperative elbow using MRI. In this article, we present both the normal appearance of the reconstructed ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) and a spectrum of UCL graft abnormalities at MR arthrography.


CONCLUSIONS
The UCL is the primary medial stabilizer of the elbow during flexion and is susceptible to injury, particularly in overhead throwing athletes. In the setting of UCL injury, ligament reconstruction is the principal surgical procedure available to restore stability and function and to relieve pain with activity. We have found MR arthrography useful in assessing the reconstructed UCL.
Radiology Associates of Birmingham, AL 35216, USA. shane.wear@gmail.com
Shane A
SA
Wear
D Dean
DD
Thornton
Martin L
ML
Schwartz
Robert C
RC
Weissmann
E Lyle
EL
Cain
James R
JR
Andrews
D000328:Adult; D001182:Arthroscopy; D017885:Collateral Ligaments / Q000293:injuries / Q000601:surgery*; D003287:Contrast Media; D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000601:surgery*; D005260:Female; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D019651:Plastic Surgery Procedures; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D000092464:Elbow Injuries
D003287:Contrast Media; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA