[TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) lesions. Diagnosis and therapy]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Hand and Wrist Surgery
• Musculoskeletal Disorders

Background:

• Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) lesions can arise from degenerative processes or post-traumatic injuries.
• These lesions affect the distal radioulnar joint and ulnocarpal joint, leading to characteristic ulnar-sided wrist pain.
• Pain is often exacerbated by forearm rotation, impacting daily activities.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the diagnostic and therapeutic utility of wrist arthroscopy for TFCC lesions.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of subsequent surgical interventions, specifically ulnar shortening osteotomy, following failed arthroscopic treatment.
• To provide insights into managing ulnar-sided wrist pain associated with TFCC pathology.

Main Methods:

• Review of diagnostic modalities for TFCC lesions, emphasizing wrist arthroscopy.
• Analysis of therapeutic outcomes following arthroscopic intervention for TFCC tears.
• Evaluation of the role and efficacy of ulnar shortening osteotomy in cases refractory to arthroscopic management.

Main Results:

• Wrist arthroscopy is a valuable tool for diagnosing TFCC lesions and guiding appropriate treatment.
• Arthroscopic therapy can effectively manage certain degrees of TFCC lesions and associated pathologies.
• Ulnar shortening osteotomy significantly reduces ulnar load, offering a viable solution after failed arthroscopic procedures.

Conclusions:

• TFCC lesions require tailored treatment based on lesion severity and concurrent pathologies.
• Wrist arthroscopy provides both diagnostic accuracy and therapeutic potential for TFCC injuries.
• Ulnar shortening osteotomy is a successful salvage procedure for persistent ulnar-sided wrist pain post-arthroscopy.