TFCC Tear

Name: TFCC (Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex) Tear
Creator: Prof Paul Lee

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a key stabilising structure on the ulnar side of the wrist. Tears cause pain with gripping and rotation, and can lead to wrist instability if untreated.

Reviewed byProf Paul Lee MBBch, FRCS (Tr & Orth), PhDLast reviewed 1 May 2026

Understanding the TFCC

The TFCC is made up of cartilage, ligaments, and a meniscal-like disc that together cushion and stabilise the wrist. It is critical for:

Load transfer between the forearm bones and the carpal bones.
Stability of the distal radioulnar joint during rotation.
Smooth forearm pronation and supination (turning the palm up and down).

Tears are classified by location and cause. Peripheral tears (near the blood supply) have better healing potential than central tears.

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Treatment options

Wrist splinting and activity modification for mild, stable tears.
Steroid or PRP injection to manage pain and support healing.
Wrist arthroscopy for debridement of degenerative tears or repair of peripheral tears.
Reconstruction for chronic tears with instability of the distal radioulnar joint.

Accurate characterisation of the tear (MRI or wrist arthroscopy) guides the treatment decision. Not all TFCC tears need surgery, and not all surgical tears need reconstruction.

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You may have more options than you think

Most patients have more treatment options than they have been told

At London Cartilage Clinic we follow a structured clinical framework across four areas of treatment. Before recommending a single procedure, we assess which combination of approaches gives you the best outcome.

Preserve

Protect what you have. Slow degeneration and manage symptoms.

Repair

Fix specific damage. Torn tissue, unstable joints, structural problems.

Regenerate

Rebuild lost tissue. Biological treatments that stimulate new growth.

Replace

When other options are exhausted. Joint replacement as a last resort.

Explore the full range of treatments available for your joint. Each hub page shows every option we offer, organised by clinical approach.

Explore Wrist Options

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the TFCC?

The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a structure on the ulnar (little finger) side of the wrist. It acts as a cushion between the forearm bones and the carpal bones, and it stabilises the distal radioulnar joint during forearm rotation. It is essential for wrist stability and load transfer.

How does a TFCC tear occur?

TFCC tears can be traumatic (from a fall on an outstretched hand or a forceful twist) or degenerative (from gradual wear, particularly in patients over 50). Traumatic tears are more common in younger, active patients.

What are the symptoms of a TFCC tear?

Pain on the ulnar side of the wrist, worsened by gripping, twisting, or loading through the hand. Clicking or clunking during forearm rotation. Weakness in grip and difficulty performing push-ups or weight-bearing through the wrist.

How is a TFCC tear treated?

Mild tears may respond to splinting, activity modification, and injection therapy. More significant tears, particularly those causing instability, may require arthroscopic repair or debridement. The approach depends on tear type, location, and your functional demands.

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