Following a fall on the outstretched hand, a patient develops instability of the distal radioulnar joint with painful limitation of forearm rotation. Which fibrocartilaginous structure, whose central perforation is called the triangular fibrocartilage proper, is the key stabiliser of this joint?

• A Palmar radiocarpal ligament
• B Interosseous membrane of the forearm
• C Pisohamate ligament
• D Triangular fibrocartilage complex attached between the ulnar styloid and radius ✓

Explanation

The triangular fibrocartilage complex spans the ulnocarpal interval from the ulnar aspect of the distal radius to the base of the ulnar styloid, cushioning the ulnar carpus and providing the main stabilisation for rotation of the radius around the ulna at the distal radioulnar joint. Its central avascular disc has poor healing capacity. The interosseous membrane transmits load proximally but does not stabilise the DRUJ directly.

Reference: Gray's Anatomy, 42nd ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.