[Traumatic TFCC lesions in childhood and adolescence-A previously neglected injury?]

Although injuries to the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) are less common in children and adolescents than in adults, can lead to chronic pain and instability in the distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), ultimately predisposing individuals to long-term osteoarthritis. A dislocated distal radius fracture with avulsion of the styloid process of the ulna following high-energy trauma is a risk factor for a TFCC injury. The diagnostics include a thorough clinical examination and imaging procedures, such as X‑ray and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). If there is no instability of the DRUJ, conservative treatment can be successful in most cases. However, if there is instability of the DRUJ or if there is no improvement after 3 months of conservative treatment, diagnostic arthroscopy of the wrist is indicated for further diagnostics and concurrent treatment. Depending on the age and extent of the injury, various surgical techniques can be used, such as transcapsular or transosseous refixation. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to achieve freedom from pain, a stable DRUJ and enable a return to sports activities. In our own patient collective 12 children and adolescents showed very good results with no major complications.