The frequency of ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction is steadily rising in New York State and becoming more common in adolescent athletes, according to a new study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine.
Here are five insights:
1. Researchers used the New York Statewide Planning and Research Cooperative System to identify all UCL reconstructions in New York State from 2002 to 2011.
2. The study found that the volume of UCL reconstructions increased by 193 percent during the study period. The rate per 100,000 population tripled from 0.15 to 0.45.
3. There was a significant increase in frequency of UCL reconstruction in patients aged 17 to 18 and 19 to 20 year old.
4. Male patients were 11.8 times more likely to have a UCL reconstruction than female patients.
5. The study authors note that emphasis on public education regarding the risks of overuse throwing injuries and the importance of preventative guidelines is essential in youth baseball today.