[Kinematics of the triangular fibrocartilage complex during forearm rotation in vivo]

Zhonghua Wai Ke Za Zhi. 2009 Nov 1;47(21):1647-50.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

Objective: To investigate three-dimensional kinematics of the superficial and deep portion of triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) in different parts of the forearm rotation.

Methods: Six wrists of 6 volunteers were used to obtain CT scans at different positions of the wrist. The wrists were scanned from 90 degrees of pronation to 90 degrees of supination at an interval of 30 degrees. The 3-dimensional radius and ulna were reconstructed with customized software and changes in length of the superficial and deep portion of TFCC during forearm rotation.

Results: In forearm pronation, the superficial dorsal portion and the deep palmar portion of the TFCC were tight. While the superficial palmar portion and the deep dorsal potion of the TFCC were lax. In supination, the changes in length of all these fibers were reverse.

Conclusions: In forearm rotation one portion fibers of dorsal TFCC and one portion fibers of palmar TFCC are tight, and this mechanism controls stability during DRUJ rotation.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomechanical Phenomena
  • Female
  • Forearm* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Male
  • Pronation
  • Radiography
  • Radius / diagnostic imaging
  • Supination
  • Triangular Fibrocartilage* / diagnostic imaging
  • Ulna / diagnostic imaging
  • Wrist Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Young Adult