Triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions: A classification

J Hand Surg Am · 1989 · Classic · cited 1,191 times

Andrew K. Palmer

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, SUNY Health Science Center, Syracuse 13202

Hand & Upper Extremity

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONClassification of triangular fibrocartilage complex injuries distinguishes traumatic lesions by location and degenerative lesions by severity and anatomic extent.
Abstract, as published

Based on anatomic and biomechanical studies and review of our clinical experience of the past 10 years, a classification of injuries to the triangular fibrocartilage complex is presented. This classification is based on the clinical examination, routine x-ray films, wrist arthrograms, wrist arthroscopy, and wrist arthrotomy. The classification recognizes both traumatic and degenerative lesions. Traumatic lesions are classified according to their location. Degenerative lesions are classified by the location and severity of degenerative changes of the triangular fibrocartilage complex, ulnar head, ulnocarpal bones and lunotriquetral ligament.

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