All Arthroscopic TFCC Fovea Repair With Suture Anchor in Athletes

Objective: Disorder in the triangular fibrocartilage complex often appears to be associated with ulnar wrist pain and limited wrist function in work or sports. This study addressed all arthroscopic fovea repair in the TFCC disorder with a suture anchor in a sample of 37 young adult athletes. 

Methods: From July 2014 to February 2017, 37 patients underwent TFCC disorder treated with suture anchor by wrist arthroscopy. The mean follow-up period was 25.6 months (22–28 months), and the patients’ average age was 21.4 years. The study included 27 men and 10 women. All patients had TFCC foveal tears or disorder and no wrist fractures. The 1.3mm all-suture anchor was used to repair or reconstruct the lesions and the wrist brace was applied for six weeks. After the operation, patients were rehabilitated, reexamined, and followed up at the clinic. Complications were also recorded. 

Results: The results were graded with a Mayo Modified Wrist Score. Twenty-five of the 37 wrists were rated excellent, ten were good, and two were fair. Overall, 35 of 37 patients (93.1%) rated satisfactorily and returned to sporting activities. Two patients experienced mild pain during work or exercise. Although motion remained normal for these patients, grip strength on the affected hand was at least 85% of that on the other hand. 

Conclusions: All arthroscopic foveal repair for the disorder of the triangular fibrocartilage complex with an all-suture anchor is a satisfactory method. The procedure can enhance patients’ wrist function by relieving pain and increasing tolerance for sports activity.