Arthroscopically assisted reattachment of avulsed triangular fibrocartilage complex to the fovea of the ulnar head.

Abstract

Triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) insertion into the fovea of the distal ulna plays a crucial role in stabilizing the distal radioulnar joint. Consequently, surgical reattachment against avulsion of the foveal TFCC insertion is required to stabilize the distal radioulnar joint. However, because of technical difficulties, no arthroscopic procedure for such a lesion has currently been established. We present a new technique for arthroscopic reattachment of the avulsed TFCC into the fovea. An osseous tunnel 2.9 mm in diameter is created from the ulnar neck to the foveal surface. Under arthroscopic guidance, a nonabsorbable suture passed into a 21-gauge needle is placed into the TFCC through the osseous tunnel. The avulsed portion of the TFCC is anchored to the fovea by means of a repair suture passed through the TFCC. To achieve normal tension of the TFCC, the suture is tied onto the periosteum around the proximal entrance of the osseous tunnel. Our arthroscopic technique is relatively simple and has great advantages for progressive healing at the attachment site between the TFCC and the fovea.