title: Thumb collateral ligament injuries in the athlete.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this review is to identify current principles in the diagnosis and treatment of collateral ligament injuries of the thumb in the athlete.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Cadaver studies have clearly identified the ulnar and radial collateral ligaments origin and insertion footprints for repair or reconstruction. Ulnar and radial collateral ligament injuries are common in athletics. History and physical examination are paramount in determining partial versus complete tear. When surgical treatment is indicated, placing the repair/reconstruction in the anatomic footprint restores stability while maintaining motion. The senior author's preferred techniques are reported.
authors.affiliation: Division of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, 523 East 72nd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
authors.forename: Daniel M
authors.initials: DM
authors.lastname: Avery
authors.affiliation: Division of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, 523 East 72nd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10021, USA.
authors.forename: Elizabeth R
authors.initials: ER
authors.lastname: Inkellis
authors.affiliation: Division of Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, Hospital for Special Surgery, 523 East 72nd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY, 10021, USA. carlsonm@hss.edu.
authors.forename: Michelle G
authors.initials: MG
authors.lastname: Carlson
keywords: Athlete; Ligament tear; Radial collateral ligament; Sport; Thumb; Ulnar collateral ligament