Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex MR Imaging

Interpretation of MR imaging of the wrist may be difficult because of the small size of this joint, its complex anatomy, and its sometimes poorly unders-tood pathologic lesions. A recent study revealed that MR imaging of the wrist influences clinicians' diagnoses and management plans in most patients. "nWhich structures make up the triangular fibrocarti-lage complex (TFCC) are not universally agreed upon. In most descriptions, however, the TFCC is composed of the triangular fibrocartilage (TFC), the meniscus homolog, the ulnar collateral ligament, the dorsal and volar radioulnar ligaments and the sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris tendon. The ulnolunate and ulnotriquetral ligaments may also be considered as part of the TFCC. These structures are a complex unit that function as a stabilizing element in the pivot movement of the radius and ulna and limit the lateral deviation of the carpus. The distal radioulnar joint is primarily stabilized by the TFCC. The TFC functions as a cushion between the ulnar head and carpal bones. Many of the structures that make up the complex are connected by fibrous bands. "nThis presentation summarizes the current diagnostic criteria that can be useful in interpreting abnormalities of the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) of the wrist in this difficult topic in joint MR imaging