TFCC repair or debridement (ulnar-sided wrist)
Surgery focused on the triangular fibrocartilage complex on the pinky side of the wrist — a key stabilizer between the forearm bones and the wrist. The operation may smooth torn tissue, repair tears, or combine with other procedures depending on the pattern of injury.
- Phases
3
- Red flags
3
- Sources
1
Editorial content last reviewed 2026-04-30. Always follow your own clinical team.
Why it's done
- Persistent ulnar-sided wrist pain or instability when surgery is indicated
- Mechanical symptoms that have not improved with appropriate conservative care
Typical recovery phases
General patterns only — your protocol wins.
- Phase 1Weeks 0–4
Protect the repair; limit provocative loading.
Wear splinting as directed; avoid forceful ulnar deviation and heavy grip early.
- Phase 2Weeks 4–10
Restore motion and light function.
Forearm rotation and wrist motion progress gradually with therapist guidance.
- Phase 3Weeks 10–16+
Strengthen and return to tasks.
Expect stepwise return to sport or tools only when cleared.
Red flags — call your team
- New numbness in ring and small fingers
- Severe swelling or color change
- Sharp instability with light daily tasks
Splints you may wear
Related motions in the movement library
Canonical hand-therapy movements linked to this condition for education — not a substitute for your own program or clearance.
Sources
- Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC) Tears — AAOS OrthoInfo(accessed 2026-04-30)