Arthrographic and CT arthrographic findings in dorsal peripheral detachment of the triangular fibrocartilaginous complex.

Abstract

Arthrography and CT arthrogram were evaluated in the diagnosis of dorsal peripheral detachment of the triangular fibrocartilaginous complex (TFCC) in the wrist. The imaging findings and medical records of 19 patients, who underwent surgical repair of a dorsal peripheral detachment of the TFCC, were retrospectively studied. Diagnoses were based on the results of the arthrography and CT arthrogram as well as on the clinical examination. The arthrographic features assessed included abnormal filling of the tendon sheath of the extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) and irregular contrast extravasate in the dorsal ulnar and peristyloid region. The findings on arthrography and CT arthrography were correlated with the arthroscopic results. In conclusion, the arthrographic signs seem to be reliable findings in the diagnosis of dorsal detachment of the TFCC.