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New Tuohy needle technique for triangular fibrocartilage complex repair: preliminary studies
W de Araujo1, G G Poehling, G R Kuzma
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Bowman Gray School of Medicine of Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA.
Summary
Arthroscopic repair of triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) tears using a Tuohy needle offers a practical and cost-effective solution. This minimally invasive technique shows high patient satisfaction for peripheral TFCC injuries.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Sports Medicine
- Wrist Arthroscopy
Background:
- Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injuries have historically been treated with casting, open excision, or arthroscopic repair.
- Peripheral TFCC tears (Palmer type IB) present a specific challenge in wrist injury management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the preliminary outcomes of arthroscopic TFCC repair for peripheral tears.
- To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of a novel Tuohy needle technique for TFCC repair.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective chart review and telephone interviews of 17 patients who underwent arthroscopic TFCC repair.
- Utilized a Tuohy needle for arthroscopic repair of peripheral TFCC tears with 2-0 polydioxanone sutures.
- Average patient age was 33 years, with an average conservative treatment duration of 9 months.
Main Results:
- Follow-up ranged from 4 to 13 months (average 8 months).
- Sixteen out of 17 patients reported satisfaction or high satisfaction with the surgical outcome.
- No complications were reported following the procedure.
Conclusions:
- The Tuohy needle technique is a practical and cost-effective method for arthroscopic management of peripheral TFCC tears.
- This approach demonstrates high patient satisfaction and a low complication rate for TFCC injury treatment.