ULNAR COLLATERAL LIGAMENT REPAIR

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The ulnar collateral ligament is a strong stabilising ligament that support the thumb during movements such as pinching or gripping. When the thumb is forced away from the hand this ligament can be torn. Partial tears will usually heal without surgical intervention, with rest and a period of immobilisation in a splint. Complete tears the ulnar collateral ligament can lead to significant displacement of the avulsed ligament from the bone and soft tissue can interpose between the ligament and bone preventing healing. This is known as a Stener lesion. In such cases surgical exploration and repair of the ligament is required.