In Vivo Assessment of Stiffness of Anterior Oblique Bundle of Ulnar Collateral Ligament Using Ultrasound Elastography

Abstract

The Anterior oblique ligament (AOL) of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) attaches to the inferior aspect of the medial epicondyle of the humerus and the coronoid process of the ulna, and has an important role in life and exercise by inhibiting flexion and valgus of the elbow. Understanding the mechanical function of the UCL in vivo is important for the diagnosis and prevention of elbow injuries caused by baseball and other sports. In this study, we aimed to measure the stiffness of the AOL during changes in elbow flexion angle and pronation and supination using ultrasound elastography. The stiffness of the AOL decreased with increasing elbow flexion angle in all conditions, and was less affected by pronation and supination compared to the intermediate position at the same elbow flexion angle.