Best Practice Case Studies-Case 130 Asset 2 Thumb UCL Injury

Video Transcription

Video Summary

This ultrasound consult explains how to evaluate a thumb ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) tear, including a Stener lesion. Using a high-frequency linear probe and proper thumb positioning, the normal UCL appears as a compact, linear fibrillar structure. Dynamic imaging and valgus stress help assess ligament integrity and visualize the adductor pollicis aponeurosis, which lies superficial to the UCL. In the injured thumb, the UCL fibers are absent and replaced by a heterogeneous mass with proximal retraction. If the torn ligament is displaced superficial to the aponeurosis, this confirms a true Stener lesion.

Meta Tag

Concept Ulnar Collateral Ligament

Concept Stener Lesion

Concept Ultrasound

Concept Adductor Pollicis Aponeurosis

Concept Full-Thickness Ligament Tear

Edition 4th Edition

Related Case 4th Edition, Case 130

Topic Hand

Keywords

4th Edition

4th Edition, Case 130

Hand

thumb UCL tear

Stener lesion

ultrasound evaluation

valgus stress

adductor pollicis aponeurosis

Ulnar Collateral Ligament

Ultrasound

Full-Thickness Ligament Tear