Researchers used publicly available databases to retrospectively review data for 235 MLB pitchers with ulnar collateral ligament injuries who underwent primary Tommy John surgery and 31 pitchers who underwent revision surgery. Investigators collected play information, including profiles, dates of surgeries, return dates and performance metrics. They also compared controls matched for position and age with pitchers who returned to one or more games after revision surgery to determine pitching performance preoperatively and postoperatively.
Here are five insights:
1. Twenty-six MLB pitchers had more than a two-year follow-up.
2. Seventeen pitchers were able to return to at least one game, with 11 pitchers able to return to and pitch for 10 or more games.
3. The average time for recovery among those who returned to the MLB after revision was 20.76 months.
4. MLB pitchers who underwent revision surgery compared with the controls had a statistically shorter pitching career.
5. MLB pitchers who underwent revision surgery also pitched fewer innings and had fewer total pitches per season compared with the matched controls.
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