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The triangular fibrocartilage complex of the wrist--anatomy and function
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|March 1, 1981
Summary
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a unified wrist structure. TFCC perforations correlate with cartilage damage and may cause pain and instability, making TFCC excision inadvisable.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Anatomy
- Biomechanics
Background:
- The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is crucial for wrist function.
- Understanding its anatomy and biomechanical role is essential for treating wrist injuries.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the anatomical structure and biomechanical function of the TFCC.
- To determine the consequences of TFCC perforations and the implications of its excision.
Main Methods:
- Anatomical dissections of 61 wrist specimens.
- Biomechanical testing to assess TFCC function.
- Histological examination of cartilage in perforated TFCC specimens.
Main Results:
- The TFCC is a homogenous structure, not dissectable into distinct components.
- Perforations were found in 53% of specimens, consistently associated with cartilage damage.
- Biomechanical data indicate the TFCC stabilizes the distal radioulnar joint and cushions the ulnar carpus.
Conclusions:
- TFCC perforations can lead to ulna-lunate abutment and cartilage erosion.
- Excision of the TFCC is not recommended due to potential complications like chronic pain and instability.