MR imaging interpretation of the Palmer classification of triangular fibrocartilage complex lesions. Radiographics 1996 Jan;16(1):97-106
Date
01/01/1996Pubmed ID
10946693DOI
10.1148/radiographics.16.1.97Scopus ID
2-s2.0-0029677158 (requires institutional sign-in at Scopus site) 70 CitationsAbstract
The triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is a complex anatomic and biomechanical structure. Injury to the TFCC is a recognized cause of ulnar wrist pain. The TFCC may be injured in its horizontal portion, in its peripheral portions, or at its attachments. In the Palmer classification, TFCC lesions are categorized as traumatic or degenerative. Traumatic lesions are subclassified according to the location of the injury; degenerative lesions are subclassified according to the extent of degeneration. This classification is helpful in determining the mechanism of injury and directing clinical management. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging may be more useful than arthrography in prospective evaluation of TFCC lesions. MR images accurately demonstrate the structural abnormalities that contribute to ulnocarpal instability and pain. The presence or absence of chondromalacia is a factor in the Palmer classification and is also considered in treatment planning. However, only advanced cases of chondromalacia are reliably detected with MR imaging.
Author List
Oneson SR, Scales LM, Timins ME, Erickson SJ, Chamoy LAuthor
Scott J. Erickson MD Professor in the Radiology department at Medical College of WisconsinMESH terms used to index this publication - Major topics in bold
AdultCartilage, Articular
Humans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Retrospective Studies
Wrist
Wrist Injuries
