UCL Reconstruction

Elbow pain and instability can sideline athletes and make daily activities difficult. The Austin Sports Medicine surgical team offers UCL reconstruction, commonly known as Tommy John surgery, as a solution for a torn ulnar collateral ligament. This procedure helps restore strength and stability to your elbow, especially if you rely on powerful or repetitive arm movements in sports or work. Learn more about UCL reconstruction by calling the office nearest you in Austin, Bee Cave, Cedar Park, or Pflugerville, Texas, or book online when ready.

What is UCL reconstruction?

UCL reconstruction, often called Tommy John surgery, repairs a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in the elbow. The UCL is a key ligament that stabilizes your elbow, especially during throwing motions. 

Injuries to this ligament are common in athletes who put repeated stress on their elbows, such as baseball pitchers, javelin throwers, and tennis players. A torn or stretched UCL can lead to pain, weakness, and reduced performance.

Am I a candidate for UCL reconstruction?

You may be a candidate for UCL reconstruction if you’ve experienced a complete tear of the ligament that hasn’t improved with nonsurgical treatments like rest, physical therapy, or bracing. 

Common signs of a UCL injury include:

• Pain on the inner side of your elbow
• A decrease in throwing velocity or control
• Feeling instability in your joint

The Austin Sports Medicine providers may recommend UCL reconstruction if you’re an athlete wanting to return to high-level competition or if elbow pain significantly limits your daily activities.

How does UCL reconstruction work?

During the procedure, your surgeon replaces the damaged UCL with a tendon graft taken from elsewhere in your body, such as your forearm, hamstring, or foot. 

Next, they thread the tendon through holes drilled in your humerus and ulna bones to recreate the original ligament’s path and function. 

The minimally invasive procedure takes about 60-90 minutes. The graft slowly heals and becomes a functional ligament over time.

What can I expect when recovering from UCL reconstruction?

Recovery from UCL reconstruction is a gradual process that can take 9-12 months or longer, especially for athletes returning to competitive throwing sports. 

Initially, your arm will be in a brace to protect the new ligament, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to restore strength, flexibility, and stability. 

Physical therapy is essential and progresses through several phases, starting with gentle range-of-motion exercises and eventually returning to sport-specific training.

With proper rehab and medical guidance, many people — especially athletes — return to their previous level of performance. The success rate for UCL reconstruction is high, making it a reliable option for restoring elbow function and reducing pain.

Call Austin Sports Medicine today to book an appointment. Scheduling online is also an option.