The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a group of several structures, including a tendon, ligaments, and a cartilage disc, located on the pinky side of the wrist. The TFCC provides cushioning and helps maintain the stability of the wrist.
Tears can affect any of the structures that make up the TFCC. They can occur suddenly with injury or gradually from wear and tear over time. TFCC tears often result in wrist pain, decreased range of motion, and loss of strength, which may lead to long-term wrist instability.
Rest and wearing a wrist splint or cast can help protect the wrist after injury to help a TFCC tear heal. If ongoing pain and instability limit daily activities, surgery may be considered.
Surgery for a TFCC tear may involve shaving down torn tissue or repairing torn tissue back together. In some cases, the ulna bone of the forearm may need to be shaved down to decrease irritation at the TFCC.
TFCC tear surgery can be performed either with an open incision along the wrist or arthroscopically through tiny incisions. This allows a surgeon to access the tear to clean it up or repair it.
