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Partial UCL Tear, PRP or Surgery?

Dear all

Long story, but our LHP who had been throwing great when P and C had to report back to college in January, including a new personal best high velocity number, felt a jerk in his elbow 2 weeks ago.  He bent over in pain and could not finish his bullpen.  Trainer thought it was just a strain as he did not have any numbness or tingling which is often a symptom of a tear.  Short version of the story, the pain continued, next steps were orthopedist visit and then MRI arthogram, which showed a partial tear.  First Dr recommended 2nd Doctor.  

Second orthopedist (who knows throwing injuries) recommends either PRP or repair surgery, not full blown Tommy John because of where the tear is, size of tear etc.  Success rate for PRP is about 70% or so but no guarantees and it takes about 5 or so weeks to know if it works.  Repair surgery takes 6-9 months to be throwing full effort again.  

Coach already decided he is a medical red shirt this year (at a HA very competitive D3) so it is not about this year, but being ready to contribute next year, his senior year.  Clearly he also maintains a year of eligibility too, we know that, if he wants it.  Given where his velo was before the injury, there would likely be many, many possibilities if he were healthy and back to where it was just a few weeks ago.  

Any HSBW wisdom or knowledge or advice as he has to decide asap which way to go?  He is leaning towards the surgery as it seems the risk the PRP won't work and he will need the surgery anyway is pushing him in that direction.  I tend to agree.  

**Just saw the HS 2021 who was asking about TJ surgery.  I am not asking for medical advice just any experiences with PRP or the partial repair surgery.  

 

 

 

Last edited by Twoboys
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