Definition
The TFCC (triangular fibrocartilaginous complex) is a cartilage-like structure located in the wrist. The TFCC mainly forms the connection between the ulna and the first row of carpal bones. However, it is also partially located between the ends of the ulna and the radius and covers a small portion of the joint between the radius and the carpal bones.
Due to its connection to bones that form the wrist, it has a great function in the mobility of the wrist. At the same time, its multiple functions mean that a wide variety of mechanisms can contribute to an injury (med. lesion) of the TFCC.
Causes of a TFCC lesion
The causes of a TFCC lesion must be chosen between degenerative and traumatic causes. Elderly people often suffer from degenerative changes of TFCC. Especially people who have worked a lot with their hands are affected.
Due to the frequent strain, wear and tear occurs, which can lead to hardening of the TFCC or even minor injuries. In the long run, this can restrict the mobility in the wrist. Rheumatic diseases can also attack the TFCC and thus lead to lesions.
In young people, and especially in children, the TFCC is not yet particularly pronounced. So injuries to the wrist can quickly lead to a tear in the TFCC. A typical trauma is a fall on the wrist with a simultaneous rotational movement.
The Ulna plus version
Normally, ulna and radius in the wrist end at about the same height. In the ulna plus version, however, the ulna is slightly longer than the radius. This leads to increased stress, especially on the side of the ulna of the wrist.
The TFCC is mainly located between the ulna and the wrist and is therefore particularly stressed in the Ulna plus version. This can lead to minor injuries to the TFCC and the surrounding cartilage layers on the ulna and carpal bones. In the long run, wear and tear occurs more quickly, which in old age mainly causes pain and restricts the mobility of the wrist. At the same time, there is an increased risk of TFCC lesions when falling on the wrist.
