J Korean Orthop Assoc.  2002 Feb;37(1):59-64.

Reconstruction for Medial Instability of the Elbow Joint using Palmaris Longus Tendon: 4 Case Reports

• Rhee YG
• Lee JH
• Ha JH
• Han DS

Abstract

We report upon our experiences of 4 cases of reconstruction using the palmaris longus tendon for medial instability of the elbow joint. All patients were male and preoperatively the average age was 22 (19-25) years old; the average follow up period was 21 (17-28) months. Three patients were pitchers who had pain and instability during the late cocking and acceleration phase. One patient had been hit directly on the medial side of the elbow and experienced instability during normal activities. The provocation test for medial instability of the elbow was positive in all patients, and magnetic resonance imaging showed complete disruption of the ulnar collateral ligament. The three baseball pitchers could throw well without symptoms at the last follow up. One patient was comfortable during the normal and sports-related activities. No ulnar nerve symptom was evident in any patient postoperatively. The results of reconstructive surgery for medial instability of the elbow were excellent or good. The surgical approach between the palmaris longus and the flexor carpi ulnaris muscles provided a good operative field without damage of the common flexor group. In the absence of a history of ulnar neuropathy preoperatively, it was found not to be necessary to transport the ulnar nerve anteriorly.

Keyword

Elbow; Medial instability; Reconstruction

MeSH Terms

Acceleration
Baseball
Collateral Ligaments
Elbow Joint*
Elbow*
Follow-Up Studies
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Male
Muscles
Tendons*
Ulnar Nerve
Ulnar Neuropathies