Role of the TFCC in Wrist Function

The triangular fibrocartilage complex is a group of ligaments cartilage and tendons on the little finger side of the wrist that stabilises the joint between the forearm bones and the carpal bones and cushions load transmission Acute falls on an outstretched hand twisting injuries or fractures can tear the TFCC and cause pain on the ulnar side of the wrist clicking weakness and difficulty gripping Degenerative tears may also develop with age or repetitive loading

Diagnosis and Initial Management

Diagnosis combines careful history examination of painful points and special tests that stress the TFCC and imaging with X rays and magnetic resonance when needed Many minor or degenerative tears improve with immobilisation activity modification splints and physiotherapy focusing on range of motion and strength Persistent pain mechanical symptoms or evident instability after a period of non surgical treatment prompt consideration of wrist arthroscopy for definitive assessment and possible repair

Wrist Arthroscopy and TFCC Repair

Wrist arthroscopy uses tiny portals and a miniature camera to inspect joint surfaces ligaments and the TFCC from inside the joint Under traction the surgeon can visualise tears clean frayed tissue and either debride or repair the TFCC depending on tear type and blood supply Peripheral tears in the vascular zone may be repaired with sutures passed through arthroscopic instruments or combined arthroscopic and open techniques while central degenerative tears are often smoothed and trimmed Bony impaction or ulnar variance issues that contribute to TFCC overload can also be evaluated and addressed sometimes with additional procedures such as ulnar shortening osteotomy in selected cases

Rehabilitation and Prognosis

After TFCC debridement patients typically wear a splint for a short time and then begin gentle motion and strengthening gradually returning to full function over weeks Following TFCC repair immobilisation is longer to protect sutures and healing with a structured progression from passive to active motion and strengthening Most patients experience substantial reduction in pain and improvement in grip and daily function particularly when surgery is performed before long standing instability and arthritis develop

Why Choose Livasa Hospitals for Wrist Arthroscopy

Livasa Hospitals offer wrist arthroscopy performed by hand surgeons experienced in small joint arthroscopy and TFCC surgery backed by high resolution imaging and dedicated hand therapy Patients from Punjab receive comprehensive care for ulnar sided wrist pain from diagnosis and splinting through to arthroscopic repair and rehabilitation when needed

Livasa Hospitals Punjab Network Contact

Livasa Healthcare Group Network of Multi speciality Hospitals in Punjab
Corporate Office Phase 8 Industrial Area Sector 73 Punjab 160071 India