Treatment Options For TFCC Tears

Non-Surgical Treatment For TFCC Tears

Appropriate treatment approaches for managing symptoms of TFCC tears depends on both the stage and severity of injury. Assessment by an orthopaedic surgeon, with regard to the appropriateness of surgical intervention is useful. Because traumatic tears and degenerative tears are frequently managed differently. Many traumatic tears are repairable. Whereas degenerative tears are often managed conservatively, surgery being very much a last resort. With conservative, non-surgical management of triangular fibrocartilage complex tears, the initial step is cessation of activities that contribute to the wrist pain. So to allow healing. The prescription of a splint, or cast to prevent the wrist movement further stressing the injury. Coupled with physiotherapy treatment.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options Include:

• Any rehabilitation program will consist in part, of relative rest from aggravating activities.
• The potential use of splinting, or cast immobilization.
• The application of ice and/or use of anti-inflammatory medication with acute injuries. Or acute reactive flare ups of chronic conditions.
• Physiotherapy, regularly encompassing progressive exercise therapy. Mainly targeting rebuilding strength (and as indicated, mobility). Coupled with the forementioned activity modification, splinting and any appropriate passive therapeutic approaches.

Despite time and treatment should conservative approaches fail to provide suitable relief. Surgery options may yet again be considered.

Vascular And Avascular Parts Of The Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex

The TFCC has variable blood supply. The central portion of the disc is considered avascular (meaning it has a lack of direct blood supply). Whereas the peripheral portion, is vascularized. Avascular areas typically have a poor ability to repair themselves. Which is one of the reasons behind why some acute TFCC tears will often do better with surgical intervention, repairing the tear.

Surgical Treatment For Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex Tears

Surgical management of TFCC tears is often an arthroscopic procedure. Where the surgeon will aim to repair the damaged portion of the TFCC. Following surgery, prescription of a temporary cast or splint is common. Physiotherapy treatment adhering to a post surgical protocol helps assist regaining pre-injury levels of wrist strength and function. Surgical procedures obviously vary.

• Some tears will be considered suitable for debridement (a clean up of the torn, frayed edges and any damaged tissue).
• Other injuries may be considered appropriate to be directly repaired.
• Tears considered to be associated with ulnar impaction, a “long ulna” putting pressure on the TFCC. Can be surgically treated by reducing the ulna to an “appropriate length”. This procedure is carried out in an attempt to help off load the TFCC.
Obviously any appropriateness with regard to surgery and specific surgical procedures, will be dictated by an orthopaedic surgeon assessment. With regarding which treatment approach is most suitable, taking into account individual circumstances. They can guide you if surgery is viable, or a more conservative approach is the best course of action.

Disclaimer: Sydney Physio Clinic does not endorse any treatments, procedures, products mentioned. This information is provided as an educational service and is not intended to serve as medical advice. Anyone seeking specific orthopaedic advice or assistance on Treatment Options For TFCC Tears should consult his or her general practitioner, sports medicine specialist, orthopaedic surgeon or physiotherapist.