If you follow baseball or have a throwing athlete in your life, you may have heard of Tommy John Surgery. But what exactly is it, and why has it become such a game-changer for athletes?
In this post, we’ll explore the essentials of UCL Reconstruction with Graft—commonly known as Tommy John Surgery—including what it treats, how it works, and what patients can expect.
The ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) is a key stabilizer in the elbow joint, particularly during overhead motions like throwing. When the UCL is damaged or torn, it can cause pain, instability, and reduced performance—especially for athletes who depend on strong, accurate arm motion.
For many years, a torn UCL often marked the end of a sports career. Today, Tommy John Surgery has changed that outcome for many.
Tommy John Surgery is named after a professional pitcher who first underwent this procedure in 1974. His successful recovery set a precedent, and the technique quickly became the go-to treatment for throwing athletes with UCL injuries.
Since then, countless baseball players, tennis players, and javelin throwers have returned to their sport following UCL reconstruction.
Diagnosis usually includes:
These steps help confirm whether a UCL injury is present and determine the best course of treatment.
UCL reconstruction with graft involves replacing the damaged ligament with a tendon graft. This graft often comes from the patient’s own body—typically from the forearm or hamstring—though sometimes donor tissue is used.
During surgery, small holes are drilled into the bones of the upper and lower arm (the humerus and ulna). The graft is then woven through these holes in a figure-eight pattern, replicating the original ligament’s function and providing long-term stability.
Recovery from Tommy John Surgery takes time and commitment. Here’s a general timeline:
The rehabilitation process is critical. With the right recovery plan, most patients—especially athletes—achieve excellent outcomes.
This surgery isn’t limited to professional athletes. UCL injuries can affect college and high school players, recreational throwers, and even non-athletes who experience ligament degeneration or trauma.
If elbow pain, instability, or weakness is interfering with your daily life or performance, a consultation with an orthopaedic specialist can help determine if UCL reconstruction is the right solution.
Tommy John Surgery has helped thousands of athletes return to the sports they love. With modern techniques and structured rehabilitation, it offers hope and healing after a serious elbow injury.
