Anatomical parameters in the lateral ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction: a cadaver study()

INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this study was to indentify the ulnar insertion of the LUCL using the olecranon tip and the radial head as parameters to guide the ligament reconstruction surgery. METHODS: Thirteen elbows of eight fresh cadavers were dissected for the study of the LUCL. The distances between the proximal and distal insertion of the LUCL (footprint), between the radial head and the footprint and between the olecranon tip and the footprint were measure with a digital pachimeter. RESULTS: The average distance from the radial head to the proximal and distal ulnar insertion of the LUCL was 13.6 and 22.99 mm, respectively. The average distance between the olecranon tip and the proximal and distal ulnar insertion of the LUCL was 38.25 and 47.6 respectively. The mean length of the LUCL footprint was 9.35 mm. CONCLUSIONS: The LUCL insertion has a wide footprint with average 9.3 mm (7.5-11 mm). Ulnar insertion half point be located at 18.2 mm of the radial head and at 42.9 mm of olecranon tip.