E1 Literature Review

Literature Review

Triangular fibrocartilage complexes (TFCC), tears from injuries, are a common source of ulnar-sided wrist pain (1). Fortunately, the TFCC is a structure that can be evaluated and treated arthroscopically. Arthroscopic techniques have been designed and utilized but the results are scarcely published (2). The purpose of this literature review is to review the research in order to discuss the anatomy of the triangular fibrocartilage complex, the classification of injuries associated with TFCC, risks and complications, the outcomes from arthroscopic surgery, and postoperative patient care.

The triangular fibrocartilage complex connects the radius, ulna and triquetrum and supports movement on the unlar side of the wrist. The TFCC also plays an important role in the transmission of the forces across the wrist (3). Furthermore, this complex provides stability to the ulnar carpus, serves as stabilizing cushion between the distal ulna and the carpus, and stability to the distal radioulnar joint (4). The triangular fibrocartilage complex is continuous from the articular surface of the radius, covers the ulnar head of the distal radio-ulnar joint and forms the articular surface on the ulnar side (5). Palmar and Werner stated that the TFCC is a structure composed of a disk which separates the distal radio-ulnar joint and the wrist, the surrounding ligaments, and tissues continuous from the carpal area (6). The tissue which is continued from the triangular fibrocartilage to the carpal bone is referred to as a meniscal homologue, which is difficult to separate from the TFC (7). Nishikawa 2002 study revealed all triangular fibrocartilage complexes’ were smoothly attached to the triquetrum (5). However, there were several combinations of attachment sites. Nishikawa study, revealed 90% of the cases they were attached to the ulnar side of the triquetrum and fifth metacarpal bone, and in 10 % they were attached widely on the articular surface of the...