“Tommy John” is one of the most-talked-about surgeries in sports, but that means there are also many myths and misunderstandings associated with the treatment. In this episode, Dr. Austin Hardaway breaks down the most important information parents and young athletes need to know about UCL injuries, including what causes them, how to treat them, and steps you can take today to prevent them. He also explains the difference between UCL repair and UCL reconstruction and dispels a popular myth about preventative surgery.

Episode Recap:

• In this episode, Dr. Austin Hardaway breaks down the most important things you need to know about UCL injuries (1:22)
• Can you tell us about your experience training under Dr. James Andrews? (2:23)
• How do you respond to the growing pressure athletes face? (4:42)
• What is the UCL, and why is it so important? (5:35)
• What is Tommy John Surgery, and where does that name come from? (6:19)
• Can you talk about the different treatment routes for a UCL injury? (7:48) 
• What’s the difference between repair and reconstruction? (10:48)
• What does the post-surgery recovery process look like? (14:20)
• What’s one thing you wish parents of patients knew about Tommy John Surgery? (15:46)
• How can players prevent UCL injuries? (16:45)

Links and Resources:

Campbell Clinic

Campbell’s Operative Orthopaedics Textbook

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