A procedure to repair a torn ulnar collateral ligament in the thumb to restore stability and function.
Through an incision at the base of the thumb, the torn ulnar collateral ligament is repaired directly, or reconstructed with a tendon graft if the tear is more significant or longstanding. The procedure typically takes one to two hours and is usually day surgery.
Assessment includes examination of thumb stability and an MRI or ultrasound to confirm the extent of ligament damage. Standard preoperative steps apply, including fasting and arranging transport home.
A thumb splint supports the repair for a period afterward, with hand therapy introduced as healing allows. Most patients see improvement within a few months, with grip and pinch strength continuing to build over this time.
Rehabilitation begins with protected thumb movement within the splint, progressing to more active movement and strengthening as the repair heals. Hand therapy guidance helps balance protecting the healing ligament with restoring normal thumb function.
Risks include infection, incomplete healing of the ligament repair, and, in a small proportion of patients, some residual instability or reduced pinch strength. The general risks of anaesthesia also apply.
The aim is a stable, pain-free thumb able to withstand normal pinch and grip forces. Most patients experience good restoration of thumb stability, with strength continuing to improve over the following months as healing progresses.
Thumb UCL repair restores the ligament that stabilises the base of the thumb, aiming to relieve pain and instability caused by an injury such as skier's thumb. Most patients experience good restoration of thumb stability and strength.
