Does TFCC show on MRI?
1. Introduction. MRI is used to diagnose wrist joint lesions, such as triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC) and intrinsic ligaments injury. MRI is accurate for showing complete tears of the TFCC and intrinsic ligament [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], [6], [7].
Where is the TFCC triangular fibrocartilage complex located?
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) connects the bones in your forearm with bones in your wrist. The structure — made up of ligaments, tendons and cartilage — helps support and stabilize your wrist. You can tear your TFCC if you fall on, twist or fracture your wrist.
What does the TFCC attach to?
Two thick ligamentous structures border the triangular fibrocartilage disc proper in its dorsal and volar aspect. These are the dorsal and volar radioulnar ligaments (RUL). [1] While they attach directly to the radius bone, the triangular fibrocartilage disc proper attaches into hyaline cartilage.
When is surgery needed for TFCC tear?
TFCC tears often get better without treatment, but a person will need to avoid using their wrist while the injury heals. For severe or persistent tears, a doctor may recommend surgery or physical therapy.
How do you fix triangular fibrocartilage complex?
If you have persistent TFCC tears, your doctor may recommend minimally invasive surgery. The most common surgery used to treat TFCC is arthroscopy. During arthroscopy, your orthopedic surgeon will repair the damaged area through a series of incisions along the outside of the wrist.
Is TFCC surgery risky?
Risks and Complications of TFCC Repair Like most surgeries TFCC repair surgeries may be associated with risks such as: Infection at the site of the surgery. Nerve and tendon damage. Swelling, stiffness and scar pain.
What is TFCC pathology?
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a load-bearing structure between the lunate, triquetrum, and ulnar head. The function of the TFCC is to act as a stabilizer for the ulnar aspect of the wrist. The TFCC is at risk for either acute or chronic degenerative injury.
What does TFCC pain feel like?
The main symptom of a TFCC tear is pain along the outside of your wrist, though you might also feel pain throughout your entire wrist. The pain may be constant or only appear when you move your wrist or apply pressure to it. Other symptoms of a TFCC tear include: a clicking or popping sound when you move your wrist.
What is the success rate of TFCC surgery?
After debridement for central or radial sided TFCC tear, up to 85% of patients reported pain relief, with a mean grip strength and mean arc of motion restored to 94% compared with that of unaffected side.
When is surgery needed for TFCC?
If there is a large tear to the central area of the TFCC then surgery is more likely to be required, as the central area has no blood supply and so has a much reduced capacity to heal.