Description
In this VTT transcript, Dr. Adam Watts delivers a comprehensive presentation focused on elbow injuries, particularly in elite athletes. He begins by establishing his expertise in elbow treatment and acknowledges his affiliations with Kairos and Neoligaments. The discussion covers various elbow conditions, stressing the prevalence of medial ligament injuries due to the demands of sports, particularly in North America, while noting fewer cases in the UK. Dr. Watts emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis through MRI scanning, and he outlines clinical tests for evaluating medial elbow pain.
The presentation explores treatment strategies for both partial and chronic medial collateral ligament injuries, touching on the efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and discussing its limitations in facilitating recovery. Further, he elaborates on osteochondral lesions associated with chronic medial ligament issues and the potential benefits of targeted arthroscopic interventions versus reconstructive surgery.
The talk also addresses pediatric elbow injuries, highlighting stress fractures and their common presentations, particularly in young athletes. Dr. Watts stresses the significance of early diagnosis and management options, including activity modification rather than complete rest.
Throughout the presentation, an emphasis is placed on the need for non-operative treatment interventions whenever possible to return athletes to sport promptly. Surgical options are discussed, including arthroscopic debridement and removal of loose bodies, which generally yields positive results in athletes experiencing persistent symptoms. Overall, Dr. Watts presents a nuanced view of elbow injuries, advocating for individualized treatment approaches based on the specific condition and athlete's age.