Arthroscopic treatment for ulnar-sided TFCC-tears

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic surgery
• Sports medicine
• Hand surgery

Background:

• Ulnar-sided triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC) ruptures are common after wrist trauma.
• Arthroscopy is the gold standard for diagnosing TFCC lesions.
• TFCC tears are classified based on location (traumatic) or severity (degenerative).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review conservative, operative, and arthroscopic techniques for TFCC reconstruction.
• To discuss restoring distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stability after TFCC ruptures.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent studies on ulnar-sided TFCC ruptures.
• Description of surgical techniques for TFCC repair and reconstruction.
• Focus on arthroscopic approaches for TFCC lesions.

Main Results:

• The primary goal is DRUJ stabilization by reattaching torn TFCC ligaments to the fovea.
• Reinsertion techniques include transosseous suture, suture anchors, or open procedures.
• Arthroscopic debridement is common for central TFCC tears.

Conclusions:

• Central TFCC tears near the sigmoid notch are traumatic or degenerative.
• Ulnar TFCC avulsions can be effectively refixed using various arthroscopic techniques.
• Restoring DRUJ stability is crucial for successful TFCC rupture management.