Anterior bundle of ulnar collateral ligament: evaluation of anatomic relationships by using MR imaging, MR arthrography, and gross anatomic and histologic analysis

Abstract

Purpose: To evaluate the gross and microscopic anatomy and the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging and MR arthrographic appearance of the anterior bundle of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) of the elbow.

Materials and methods: The origin and insertion of the anterior bundle of the UCL, the bundle's relationship to the overlying flexor tendons, and the presence of a layered configuration were assessed through inspection and dissection of an elbow specimen. T1-weighted spin-echo MR imaging and MR arthrography in standard imaging planes and a coronal oblique plane were performed in eight other elbow specimens. Additional MR arthrography was performed in four specimens by using the coronal plane with the elbow in 20 degrees of flexion. The specimens were then cut in planes corresponding to those of the MR images. Histologic analysis of two specimens was performed.

Results: The anterior bundle of the UCL appeared as a low-signal-intensity structure on T1-weighted spin-echo MR and MR arthrographic images. It consisted of a uniform layer of parallel collagen fibers attaching proximally to the base of the medial epicondyle of the humerus and distally to the medial aspect of the coronoid process of the ulna (sublime tubercle). A layer of synovium separated the anterior bundle from the more superficial tendon of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle. MR imaging-anatomic comparison in four (50%) specimens revealed separation between the anterior bundle of the UCL and the sublime tubercle. Results of histologic analysis of two of these specimens confirmed insertion of the anterior bundle of the UCL 3 and 4 mm distal to the articular margin. Ligamentous degeneration was detected in only one of these specimens.

Conclusion: There is variability in the distal insertion of the anterior bundle, and this suggests that caution should be exercised in the diagnosis of its partial detachment from the sublime tubercle of the ulna.