Treatment of TFCC Avulsion

Surgical Technique and Post-Operative Care

Arthroscopic foveal repair with suture anchor is a preferred surgical approach, as it restores anatomic TFCC attachment to the foveal insertion site, critical for DRUJ stability, and allows concurrent treatment of associated injuries, with immobilization preventing repair failure, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1
Immobilization phase involves immobilizing forearm rotation for 4 weeks post-operatively in neutral rotation, with wrist immobilization in neutral position, and rehabilitation timeline begins with gentle active wrist motion at 4 weeks, progressing to strengthening at 8-12 weeks, and return to heavy tasks and sports at 3 months minimum, as recommended by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1
Radiographic follow-up at 3 weeks and at immobilization cessation confirms healing, and immobilization-related complications, such as skin irritation and muscle atrophy, occur in 14.7% of cases but are generally minor, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1

Dorsal sensory branch of ulnar nerve (DSBUN) neuroapraxia occurs in approximately 10% of cases, with full spontaneous recovery expected, related to portal placement and surgical dissection, and immobilization-related complications are less significant than risks of inadequate treatment, as noted by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1
Arthroscopic evaluation allows identification and treatment of concurrent ligament injuries that may be missed on standard imaging, highlighting the importance of thorough assessment and treatment, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 1