Efficacy of interference screw and double-docking methods using palmaris longus and GraftJacket for medial collateral ligament reconstruction of the elbow

Single-strand elbow medial collateral ligament reconstruction strength was evaluated by use of double-docking and interference screw methods with either a palmaris longus tendon or GraftJacket as the reconstruction material. Thirteen upper extremities were mounted in 90° of valgus orientation and subjected to cyclic valgus loading that increased progressively until failure occurred. The double-docking reconstructions outperformed the interference screw reconstructions (P < .05), whereas the palmaris longus and GraftJacket performed comparably (P > .05). The favorable initial strength of the GraftJacket make it a potentially viable alternative to the use of autogenous palmaris longus tendons; however, further studies are required to evaluate graft strength during healing. The clinical use of the double-docking technique of single-strand medial collateral ligament reconstruction should be considered because of its simplicity and initial strength.