The effect of lateral collateral ligament repair tension on elbow stability: An in vitro biomechanical study

Background: The aim of this study was to determine the optimal repair tension of the lateral collateral ligament of the elbow by performing simulated active flexion with the arm in the varus gravity loaded position using an in vitro elbow simulator.

Methods: Eight cadaveric specimens were mounted in the varus gravity loaded orientation onto an elbow motion simulator. Four states were studied (intact, lateral collateral ligament injured, and 15 N and 20 N lateral collateral ligament repairs) with the forearm in supination and pronation. An electromagnetic tracking system was used to measure joint kinematics during active elbow flexion.

Findings: There was no difference in ulnohumeral rotation between the intact state and the 15 N repair (P = .150 for pronation; P = 1.0 for supination) or the 20 N repair (P = 1.0 for pronation; P = .568 for supination). For varus-valgus angulation, the 20 N repair was not statistically different from the intact state (P = .059 in pronation; P = 1.0 in supination).

Interpretation: Repair of the lateral collateral ligament following injury can restore joint kinematics with the arm in the varus position. A repair tension of 20 N was successful in restoring joint stability for simulated active motion with the forearm in pronation and supination. This study shows that when the lateral collateral ligament is repaired with adequate tension, avoidance of the varus position may not be as crucial during early motion.