The Triangular fibrocartilage complex consists of articular disc, meniscus homologue (lunocarpal), ulnocarpal ligament, dorsal & volar radioulnar ligament, and extensor carpii ulnaris sheath.
It originates from firm attachments on medial border of distal radius and inserts into the base of the ulnar styloid and separates the radiocarpal from the distal radioulnar joint.
The thickness of triangular fibrocartilage complex is roughly 5 mm at ulnar side and 2 mm thick at radial side;
It is attached by its apex to a depression between the styloid process and the head of the ulna; and by its base, which is thin, to the prominent edge of the radius, which separates the ulnar notch from the carpal articular surface.
Its margins are united to the ligaments of the wrist-joint.
Its upper surface, smooth and concave, articulates with the head of the ulna and its under surface articulates with the triquetral bone and medial part of the lunate.
Both surfaces are lined by synovial membrane.
TFCC acts as main stabilizer of distal radioulnar joint and adds to ulnocarpal stability. It also acts as a buttress to support proximal carpal row. Excision of TFCC results in increase in radial load.
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