Repair of Tears to the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) in the Wrist

What is triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) repair?

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a cushiony spot made up of ligaments and tendons within the wrist, near the bony "outside" part. It is what allows your wrist to flex, bend and move in different directions.

If you have an injury to the TFCC, such as from a fall where you braced your landing with your hand, you may experience pain or in some cases a clicking noise and sensation. Surgical repair may be recommended when medication and other therapies, such as splinting and physical therapy, fail to improve your condition.

What to expect from TFCC surgery

TFCC repair is performed under general anesthesia (you’ll be asleep for the procedure) and is often done with the help of an arthroscope, a miniature surgical instrument with a tiny camera on the end. Your surgeon will make several small incisions (cuts) near the wrist and then guide the instrument in while the camera’s view of the affected area is projected onto a computer screen. Using the surgical instrument, the surgeon is able to diagnose as well as remove torn tissue and repair the TFCC.

This minimally invasive approach results in less bleeding, swelling, pain, and recovery time than traditional "open" surgery.