Tommy John Surgery (UCL Repair): What You Need to Know

Tommy John surgery is a procedure used to treat ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) injuries in the elbow. This ligament helps keep the elbow stable, especially during throwing motions.

UCL injuries are most common in baseball players and other throwing athletes, but they can also affect people with repetitive arm stress.

What Is the UCL?

The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a strong band of tissue on the inside of the elbow. It helps control elbow movement and prevents the joint from bending the wrong way.

When the UCL is stretched or torn, it can cause pain, weakness, and loss of throwing control.

What Is Tommy John Surgery?

Tommy John surgery is a procedure used to repair or reconstruct the UCL. The surgery is named after a professional baseball pitcher who was the first to successfully undergo the procedure.

There are two main approaches:

• UCL repair – the ligament is repaired, sometimes with added support

• UCL reconstruction – a tendon graft is used to replace the damaged ligament

An orthopaedic specialist will decide which option is best based on the injury and patient needs.

When Is UCL Repair or Tommy John Surgery Needed?

Surgery may be recommended when:

• The UCL is fully torn

• Pain continues despite rest and therapy

• Elbow instability affects sports or daily activities

• Non-surgical treatment has failed

Not all UCL injuries need surgery. Many mild injuries improve with rest and physical therapy.

What Happens During the Surgery?

Tommy John surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure.

During surgery:

• The damaged ligament is repaired or replaced

• A tendon may be taken from another area of the body if needed

• The elbow is stabilized and closed with sutures

Your orthopaedic surgeon will explain the details before surgery.

Recovery After Tommy John Surgery

Recovery takes time and requires commitment to rehabilitation.

Recovery often includes:

• Wearing a brace at first

• Gradual physical therapy

• Strength and range-of-motion exercises

• A slow return to throwing or sports

Full recovery can take 9 to 12 months or longer, especially for athletes.

Risks and Benefits of Tommy John Surgery

Benefits

• Improved elbow stability

• Reduced pain

• Ability to return to sports or activities

Possible Risks

• Infection

• Nerve irritation

• Stiffness

• Incomplete healing

Your orthopaedic specialist will review risks and benefits with you.

When Should You See an Orthopaedic Specialist?

You should seek orthopaedic care if you experience:

• Inner elbow pain while throwing

• Loss of throwing speed or accuracy

• Elbow weakness or instability

• Pain that does not improve with rest

Early evaluation can lead to better outcomes.

Expert Orthopaedic Elbow Care at OIBortho

At OIBortho, our specialists treat UCL injuries using advanced orthopaedic techniques, including Tommy John surgery and UCL repair. We focus on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and safe recovery.

If you are experiencing elbow pain or suspect a UCL injury, call OIBortho at 732-800-9000 or, for your convenience, schedule an appointment online 24/7.