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In a patient with a left elbow injury presenting with marked edema along the medial aspect, which structure is most likely involved?

  1. Radial collateral ligament

  2. Ulnar collateral ligament

  3. Biceps tendon

  4. Triceps tendon

The correct answer is: Ulnar collateral ligament

The presence of marked edema along the medial aspect of the left elbow strongly suggests involvement of the ulnar collateral ligament (UCL). The UCL is located on the inner side of the elbow and plays a crucial role in stabilizing the joint, particularly during activities that involve throwing or overhead motions. When an injury occurs in this area, such as a sprain or tear of the UCL, it often leads to swelling and tenderness along the medial aspect, which is why edema would be prominently observed there. In contrast, structures like the radial collateral ligament, biceps tendon, and triceps tendon are situated more laterally or at different anatomical locations relative to the elbow, and their injury typically would not result in significant edema on the medial side. Thus, given the specific presentation of marked edema along the medial aspect of the elbow, the UCL is the most likely structure involved in this scenario.