Arthroscopic Treatment for Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Lesion

Abstract

Purpose : We analyzed the results and prognostic factors for patients with triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions who underwent arthroscopic surgery. Materials and Methods : According to Palmer classification, there were 10 type Ia, 5 Ib, 2 Ic, 1 IIb and 7 IIc lesions. Twenty patients received arthroscopic debridement and 5 patients arthroscopic repair. To assess the clinical outcomes, the degree of pain, range of motion, grip strength, returning to previous job and patient’s satisfaction were investigated. Results : Among 25 patients, 20 showed pain relief and improved clinical symptoms after the operation. Sixteen of the seventeen traumatic lesions showed excellent or good results, while 4 of the 8 degenerative lesions showed good results. Among 20 patients who received arthroscopic debridement, 15 patients showed good results, while all 5 patients who underwent arthroscopic repair produced good results. Conclusion : Wrist arthroscopy allows accurate diagnosis of triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions, and arthroscopic debridement or repair produces good clinical outcomes. Traumatic triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions tend to have better results than degenerative lesions.