What is the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC)?
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a small piece of cartilage and ligaments on the little-finger side of the wrist, located just past the end of the forearm bone (ulna). Cartilage is a tough rubbery tissue that acts as a cushion for the joint. The ligaments are strong bands of tissue that attach the cartilage to bones in the wrist. The ligaments or cartilage can be torn during a wrist injury. How do TFCC injuries occur? TFCC injuries are usually caused by: a fall onto the outstretched hand a direct blow to the little finger side of the wrist or hand swinging a bat or a racquet a violent twist of the wrist at work or in sports. What are the symptoms? Symptoms include: pain on the little-finger side of the wrist clicking sound or feeling or a catching sensation when moving the wrist. How is it diagnosed? Your health care provider will ask about your symptoms and examine your wrist and hand. Among tests your provider may order are: x-rays an arthrogram, which is an x-ray done
