Ulnocarpal Joint

Description

Anatomic relationship between ECU sheath floor, prestyloid recess, and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), which comprises ulnocarpal ligamentous complex (UCLC), disk, and palmar and dorsal radioulnar (RU) ligaments.

Anatomy of the TFCC

Normal wrist xray highlithing the ulno carpal joint

Name

• Ulnocarpal Joint
• Ulnar carpal joint
• Ulnocarpal articulation
• Ulnar-sided wrist joint
• TFCC articulation
• Distal ulnar carpal articulation

General

• Distal ulna articulates with the lunate, triquetrum
• Forms part of the wrist joint
• Stabilized by the ulnocarpal ligamentous complex, Dorsal Ulnocarpal Ligament
• The ulna does not directly contact the carpal bones
• Separated by the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC)
• Closely related to Distal radioulnar joint (DRUJ), Radiocarpal joint

Biomechanics

• Transmits ~20% of axial load across the wrist (increases with positive ulnar variance)
• Allows smooth forearm rotation (pronation/supination) via DRUJ interaction
• Provides stability to the ulnar wrist during gripping and weight-bearing

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Clinical Significance

• Ulnar Impaction Syndrome
• Distal Ulna Fracture
• TFCC Injury
• Degenerative changes with ulnar variance

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See Also

• Wrist Pain Main
• Hand And Wrist Anatomy Main
• Physical Exam Wrist

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