Elbow Surgery in Athletes

Background: Elbow injuries are common among athletes, especially those involved in overhead sports such as baseball, tennis, and gymnastics. These injuries can range from acute trauma to chronic overuse syndromes, leading to conditions such as ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries, lateral and medial epicondylitis, and osteochondritis dissecans. Surgical intervention may be necessary when conservative treatments fail or in cases of severe injury. Understanding the various surgical options available and their outcomes is crucial for optimizing recovery and facilitating a return to competitive sports. Methods: This study examines the surgical management of elbow disorders in athletes, focusing on common procedures such as UCL reconstruction, arthroscopic debridement, and loose body repair. It integrates data from studies conducted between ۲۰۱۰ and ۲۰۲۲ and clinical trials to evaluate the effectiveness of these surgical techniques in terms of recovery time, return to sport level, and overall functional outcomes. It also discusses preoperative assessments, including imaging studies and functional evaluations, to guide treatment decisions. Results: Analysis shows that UCL reconstruction is the most common surgical procedure for throwing athletes with significant ligament injuries. Studies indicate that approximately ۸۰% of athletes undergoing UCL reconstruction return to their pre-injury competitive level within one year post-surgery. Additionally, arthroscopic techniques have demonstrated promising results for treating other elbow pathologies, such as loose bodies and osteochondritis dissecans, with reported success rates exceeding ۹۰%. Athletes undergoing these procedures often experience significant improvements in pain relief and functional performance. However, complications such as stiffness and re-injury remain concerns, highlighting the importance of appropriate postoperative rehabilitation protocols. Conclusion: Surgical management of elbow disorders in athletes has seen significant advancements in recent years, with improved techniques resulting in better outcomes. Procedures like UCL reconstruction and arthroscopic interventions are effective in restoring function and empowering athletes to return to their sport, but a comprehensive approach that includes thorough preoperative assessment and structured postoperative rehabilitation is essential for maximizing recovery. Ongoing research into surgical techniques and rehabilitation strategies continues to enhance the management of elbow injuries in the athletic population.

کلیدواژه ها:

Elbow surgery ، Ulnar collateral ligament ، Athletes ، Surgical management ، Rehabilitation ، Overhead sports