Question

Baseball pitchers often require "Tommy John" surgery to repair damage to the ulnar collateral ligament. Which joint is the target?

Answer 1

Elbow joint

The ulnar collateral ligament is found in the inner side of the elbow joint. Hence, it helps in secure our elbow joint. In the Tommy John surgery, the ulnar collateral ligament associated with the elbow joint is replaced by a tendon. The tendon used may be derived from any dead person or any other portion of the patient itself.

It is here to be noted that, ligament and tendon are connective tissues. Ligament joints one bone with another, while tendon helps in attachment of muscle to the bone.

Hinge joint is present in elbow. The ulnar collateral ligament found in medial aspect of elbow and helps in joining of humerus to ulna.