Arthroscopically-Assisted Foveal Repair of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex: Anchor Fixation versus Trans Osseous Tunnel – A Comparative Study

• Published in: Revista iberoamericana de cirugía de la mano 2022-05, Vol.50 (1), p.e3-e11
• Main Authors: Azócar, Camila, Cifras, José Luis, Montenegro, Diego, Barros, Tomás, Jara, Hernán, Liendo, Rodrigo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: arthroscopy; foveal reinsertion; Original Article | Artículo Original; triangular fibrocartilage complex
• ISSN: 1698-8396; 1698-840X
• DOI: 10.1055/s-0042-1742690

Abstract Introduction  The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) plays a fundamental role in the stability of the wrist, and its foveal insertion is the primary structure that performs this function. Surgical repair of the CFCT is challenging given the complexity of the anatomical structures, and arthroscopically-assisted reinsertion has shown certain benefits. The most commonly used techniques are reinsertion with anchors (RAs) and transosseous tunnels (TOs). Objective  To compare the functional results of patients with acute foveal lesion of the CFCT operated through RAs versus TOs, both with arthroscopic assistance. Materials and methods  A retrospective, observational study of patients operated on for foveal disinsertion of the TFCC. We included patients older than 18 years of age, with a traumatic history and conservative treatment lsting 3 months, with persistent pain and arthro-computed tomography (arthroCT) compatible with foveal disinsertion of the TFCC. Patients treated with the RA technique versus TOs were compared, both with arthroscopic assistance. The variables studied were pain during load according to the visual analog scale (VAS), Mayo score, and ranges of motion of the wrist. Values of p