Repair of Peripheral Radial TFCC Tears

Conclusion

Wrist arthroscopy is a sensitive modality to evaluate for tears of the triangular fibrocartilage complex. It allows precise identification of the tear pattern as well as the severity of the tear. Wrist arthroscopy allows evaluation of the integrity of the articular disk through palpation with a probe and documents when the tear extends to involve radioulnar ligaments. When a radial-sided tear of the articular disk includes the volar and/or dorsal radioulnar ligaments, arthroscopic repair of the TFCC should be considered. Although anatomic studies have shown decreased vascularity on the radial side of the triangular fibrocartilage complex, several studies have shown successful repair of the articular disk, both clinically and by objective imaging with arthrograms and MRI.

Arthroscopic repair of radial-sided tears of the TFCC is safe and effective. Several surgical techniques have been described in the literature. Arthroscopic techniques have less morbidity and potentially accelerated rehabilitation for patients compared to open repair. New techniques continue to be developed to further simplify the procedure.