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Partial excision of the triangular fibrocartilage complex articular disk: a biomechanical study
1Department of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, University of Vermont College of Medicine, Burlington 05405.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|March 1, 1993
Summary
Limited excision of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is safe. Removing less than two-thirds of the TFCC disk, while preserving the outer 2mm rim, showed no significant changes in wrist joint function or structure.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Biomechanics
- Anatomy
Background:
- The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is crucial for distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) stability.
- Tears of the TFCC often necessitate surgical intervention, with varying degrees of excision debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biomechanical consequences of partial and complete articular disk excisions within the TFCC.
- To assess the impact on DRUJ kinematics and TFCC structural integrity.
Main Methods:
- A cadaveric study was conducted.
- Evaluated kinematic and structural changes following different extents of TFCC articular disk excision.
Main Results:
- Excision preserving the peripheral 2 mm rim and comprising less than two-thirds of the disk area resulted in no significant kinematic or structural alterations.
- Larger excisions led to measurable changes in DRUJ kinematics and TFCC integrity.
Conclusions:
- Limited excision of central TFCC tears, preserving the peripheral rim, appears biomechanically safe.
- Supports conservative surgical approaches for specific TFCC injuries to maintain joint stability.