Reconstruction of Chronic Foveal TFCC Tears with an Autologous Tendon Graft

Abstract

Background A triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) injury can produce distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ) instability. If the foveal attachment is avulsed, it translates distally. The footprint is separated from its origin and will become covered in synovitis, preventing healing. The authors describe a surgical technique for the treatment of instability of the DRUJ due to chronic foveal detachment of the TFCC.

Technique The procedure utilizes a loop of autologous palmaris longus tendon graft passed through the ulnar aspect of the TFCC and through an osseous tunnel in the distal ulna to reconstruct the fovel attachment.

Patients and Methods We report on nine patients with a mean age of 42. Median follow-up was 13 months.

Results The median pain scores measured were reduced from 8 to 3 postoperatively, and all had a stable DRUJ.

Conclusions This technique provides stability of the distal ulna to the radius and carpus, with potential for biologic healing through osseous integration. It is a robust, anatomically based reconstruction of the TFCC to the fovea that stabilizes the DRUJ and the ulnar-carpal sag.

Keywords

triangular fibrocartilage complex - foveal tear - DRUJ instability

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