Patient-reported outcomes and function after reinsertion of the triangular fibrocartilage complex by open surgery.

Abstract

Patients with a triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury report ulnar-sided wrist pain and impaired function. The surgical procedure of TFCC reinsertion aims to improve function in patients with this injury in whom conservative treatment has failed. The purpose of this study was to investigate the outcomes of open TFCC reinsertion. The study involved 274 patients who underwent open repair of the TFCC between December 2013 and December 2018. The patients completed the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE) questionnaire, and scored pain and function using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Range of motion (ROM) was assessed by experienced hand therapists. Clinically significant improvements were reported in pain, function, and grip strength in 220 patients (80%) three and 12 months postoperatively. These data will help surgeons to make decisions about the outcomes of open repair of the TFCC and to counsel patients appropriately. Level of evidence: III Cite this article: <i>Bone Joint J</i> 2021;103-B(4):711-717.