{{Short description|A complex structure in the wrist that supports the small bones of the wrist and acts as a stabilizer for the ulnar side of the wrist.}}
[[File:Anatomy_TFCC.jpg|thumb|Anatomy of the triangular fibrocartilage complex]]
[[File:Anatomy_TFCC.jpg|thumb|Anatomy of the triangular fibrocartilage complex]]
[[File:Gray336.png|thumb|Gray's anatomy illustration of the wrist, showing the triangular fibrocartilage complex]]
[[File:Gray336.png|thumb|Gray's anatomy illustration of the wrist, showing the triangular fibrocartilage complex]]
'''Triangular fibrocartilage complex''' (TFCC) is a structure located in the [[wrist]], specifically on the ulnar side. It is composed of several ligaments and cartilage, namely the triangular fibrocartilage discus, the ulnolunate and ulnotriquetral ligaments, the meniscus homologue, the dorsal and palmar radioulnar ligaments, and the sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon.
The '''triangular fibrocartilage complex''' ('''TFCC''') is a structure located on the ulnar side of the wrist that stabilizes the distal radioulnar joint and the ulnar carpus. It is crucial for the proper function and movement of the wrist.
==Etymology==
The term "triangular fibrocartilage complex" is derived from the structure's triangular shape and its composition of fibrocartilage and other elements. The term "complex" is used because the TFCC is not a single entity, but a complex of structures.
==Anatomy==
==Structure==
The TFCC is composed of several components, including the articular disc, the meniscus homologue, the ulnar collateral ligament, the dorsal and volar radioulnar ligaments, and the sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon. These structures work together to provide stability and support to the wrist, particularly during rotational movements.
The TFCC is a complex structure that serves several functions in the wrist. It is composed of the following elements:
The articular disc, also known as the triangular fibrocartilage, is a central component of the TFCC. It is a biconcave structure that acts as a cushion between the ulna and the carpal bones, absorbing compressive forces and allowing smooth movement.
* '''Triangular fibrocartilage discus:''' This is a thick disc of fibrocartilage that separates the ulnar carpal bones from the ulnar head.
* '''Ulnolunate and ulnotriquetral ligaments:''' These are ligaments that connect the ulna to the lunate and triquetral bones, respectively.
* '''Meniscus homologue:''' This is a fibrocartilaginous structure that is analogous to the meniscus of the knee.
* '''Dorsal and palmar radioulnar ligaments:''' These ligaments stabilize the distal radioulnar joint.
* '''Sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon:''' This is a sheath that surrounds the tendon of the extensor carpi ulnaris muscle.
==Function==
==Function==
The primary function of the TFCC is to stabilize the distal radioulnar joint and the ulnar side of the wrist. It allows for smooth and coordinated movements such as pronation and supination of the forearm. The TFCC also helps distribute axial load from the hand to the forearm, protecting the bones and joints from excessive stress.
The TFCC plays several important roles in the function of the wrist. It serves as a major stabilizer of the ulnar side of the wrist and the distal radioulnar joint. It also acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the forces transmitted across the wrist.
==Injury==
[[File:TFCC_tear.jpg|thumb|MRI showing a tear in the triangular fibrocartilage complex]]
Injuries to the TFCC are common, especially in athletes and individuals who perform repetitive wrist motions. These injuries can result from acute trauma, such as a fall on an outstretched hand, or from degenerative changes due to aging or repetitive stress.
Symptoms of a TFCC injury include pain on the ulnar side of the wrist, swelling, and a clicking or popping sensation during wrist movements. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination and imaging studies, such as MRI.
Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the injury and may include rest, splinting, physical therapy, or surgical intervention.
==Related pages==
==Clinical significance==
* [[Wrist joint]]
Injury to the TFCC can result in pain, instability, and loss of function in the wrist. This can occur as a result of trauma, degeneration, or overuse. Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination and imaging studies, such as MRI. Treatment may involve conservative measures, such as rest, immobilization, and physical therapy, or surgical intervention in more severe cases.
* [[Distal radioulnar joint]]
* [[Ulnar collateral ligament]]
==References==
==See also==
*
* [[Wrist]]
* Atzei, A., & Luchetti, R. (2011). Foveal TFCC tear classification and treatment. ''Hand Clinics'', 27(3), 263-272.
[[Category:Anatomy of the upper limb]]
[[Category:Wrist]]
== Triangular_fibrocartilage ==
<gallery>
File:Anatomy_TFCC.jpg|Anatomy of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex
File:Gray336.png|Anatomical illustration of the wrist
File:Anatomy_TFCC_2.jpg|Detailed view of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex
File:Rul's_by_pro-_and_supination.jpg|Movements of pronation and supination
File:TFCC_tear.jpg|Tear in the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex
</gallery>
== Triangular Fibrocartilage ==
The '''triangular fibrocartilage''' (TFC) is a complex structure located in the wrist, specifically on the ulnar side, which is the side of the little finger. It plays a crucial role in stabilizing the distal [[radioulnar joint]] (DRUJ) and the ulnar side of the wrist, allowing for smooth and coordinated movement.
=== Anatomy ===
The triangular fibrocartilage is part of the [[triangular fibrocartilage complex]] (TFCC), which includes several components:
* The articular disc, which is the actual triangular fibrocartilage, is a thin, fibrous structure that sits between the distal end of the [[ulna]] and the carpal bones.
* The dorsal and volar radioulnar ligaments, which help stabilize the DRUJ.
* The ulnolunate and ulnotriquetral ligaments, which connect the ulna to the [[lunate]] and [[triquetrum]] bones, respectively.
* The meniscus homologue, a structure that resembles a meniscus and provides additional support.
The TFC is attached to the ulnar notch of the [[radius]] and the base of the ulnar styloid process. It acts as a cushion and stabilizer for the ulnar side of the wrist.
=== Function ===
The primary functions of the triangular fibrocartilage include:
* '''Stabilization of the DRUJ''': The TFC helps maintain the alignment and stability of the distal radioulnar joint during forearm rotation.
* '''Load transmission''': It distributes axial loads from the hand to the forearm, particularly during gripping and weight-bearing activities.
* '''Cushioning''': The TFC acts as a shock absorber, protecting the bones and soft tissues of the wrist from excessive forces.
=== Clinical Significance ===
Injuries to the triangular fibrocartilage are common and can result from trauma, such as a fall on an outstretched hand, or from degenerative changes. Symptoms of TFC injury may include:
* Ulnar-sided wrist pain
* Swelling and tenderness
* Decreased grip strength
* Clicking or popping sensations during wrist movement
Diagnosis of TFC injuries often involves clinical examination and imaging studies, such as [[MRI]] or [[arthroscopy]]. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the injury and may include:
* Conservative management with rest, splinting, and physical therapy
* Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
* Surgical intervention, such as debridement or repair of the TFC
=== Related Pages ===
* [[Triangular fibrocartilage complex]]
* [[Distal radioulnar joint]]
* [[Ulna]]
* [[Ulna]]
* [[Radius]]
* [[Ligament]]
* [[Wrist joint]]
* [[Cartilage]]
{{Anatomy-stub}}
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Anatomy]]
[[Category:Musculoskeletal system]]
[[Category:Orthopedics]]
[[Category:Wrist]]
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Latest revision as of 03:15, 28 March 2025
File:Anatomy TFCC.jpgAnatomy of the triangular fibrocartilage complexGray's anatomy illustration of the wrist, showing the triangular fibrocartilage complex
Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a structure located in the wrist, specifically on the ulnar side. It is composed of several ligaments and cartilage, namely the triangular fibrocartilage discus, the ulnolunate and ulnotriquetral ligaments, the meniscus homologue, the dorsal and palmar radioulnar ligaments, and the sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon.
The term "triangular fibrocartilage complex" is derived from the structure's triangular shape and its composition of fibrocartilage and other elements. The term "complex" is used because the TFCC is not a single entity, but a complex of structures.
The TFCC plays several important roles in the function of the wrist. It serves as a major stabilizer of the ulnar side of the wrist and the distal radioulnar joint. It also acts as a shock absorber, cushioning the forces transmitted across the wrist.
Injury to the TFCC can result in pain, instability, and loss of function in the wrist. This can occur as a result of trauma, degeneration, or overuse. Diagnosis is typically made through physical examination and imaging studies, such as MRI. Treatment may involve conservative measures, such as rest, immobilization, and physical therapy, or surgical intervention in more severe cases.
