triangular fibrocartilage complex

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a complex structure that is a major contributor to the stability of the wrist.

Gross anatomy

The TFCC is located on the ulnar aspect of the wrist joint between the ulna and the lunate and triquetrum of the proximal carpal row. It has an elongated triangular shape with the apex pointing at the radius  and consists of the triangular fibrocartilage disc proper along with :

• volar components
  • volar radioulnar ligament
  • ulnocarpal ligamentous complex:
    • ulnotriquetral ligament
    • ulnocapitate ligament
    • ulnolunate ligament
• ulna components
  • triangular ligament
  • ulnar collateral ligament
  • meniscal homologue
• dorsal components
  • dorsal radioulnar ligament
  • extensor carpi ulnaris tendon sheath

Blood supply

• central and radial portions of the TFCC are avascular

Variant anatomy

The shape of the TFCC varies with negative and positive ulnar variance :

• negative ulnar variance: thicker, shorter with a more horizontal lie
• positive ulnar variance: thinner and arc-shaped

Function

The triangular fibrocartilage complex has the following functions :

• main stabilizer of distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ)
• buttress to support the proximal carpal row
• allowing for transmission of a portion of the axial load from the carpus to the ulna (~20% of the force, with the remaining 80% through the radiocarpal joint)

Related pathology

• TFCC injury
  • Palmer classification of TFCC abnormalities
• ulnar impaction syndrome

Siehe auch:

• Läsion Diskus triangularis
• Palmer classification of TFCC lesions
• mucoid degeneration of the TFCC

und weiter:

• Palmer classification of TFCC abnormalities
• Meniskusluxation
• Ligamentum radiotriquetrum dorsale
• Discus articularis