Wrist arthroscopy is used for diagnosis and treatment. It works best for showing ligament tears, damage to the triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC), or joint cartilage. Since the wrist is a very small joint, the surgeon uses a special arthroscope.
Ligament tears
The ligaments between the bones of the wrist can tear. This most often happens between the lunate and scaphoid bones or the lunate and triquetrum bones. Such tears can cause pain, swelling, and a weak grip. With a full tear, the bones may pull apart and limit motion. To perform repairs, your surgeon may shift to open surgery.
TFCC damage
Injury or constant use over time can cause a tear in the TFCC (triangular fibrocartilage complex). During surgery, the tear may be shaved off or repaired. Bone or cartilage fragments may be removed. After healing, you should be able to move your wrist with greater ease and less pain.
Cartilage damage
If you have wearing down of the cartilage (arthritis), your surgeon will shave off or smooth the worn area. Bone or cartilage fragments that have chipped off in the joint (loose bodies) will be removed. The removal of loose bodies can help restore smooth, pain-free wrist movement.
Online Medical Reviewer: L Renee Watson MSN RN
Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Turley Jr PA-C
Online Medical Reviewer: Thomas N Joseph MD
Date Last Reviewed: 12/01/2022
© 2000-2026 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
Learn More About Health Services at PIH Health
Expert care for every stage of life. Explore the comprehensive services offered at PIH Health.
Explore Services
Get Health Tips & Updates
Sign up for helpful health information, wellness tips and news from PIH Health, delivered straight to your inbox.
SubscribeRelated Articles
Shoulder Arthroscopy
If you have a shoulder problem, a surgical procedure called arthroscopy can help.
Laminectomy
Laminectomy is a surgery that removes the part of the vertebra called the lamina. Here's a look at what you can expect before, during, and after the procedure.
Treating Mallet, Hammer, and Claw Toes
Learn how these common conditions affecting the toes are treated.
Elbow Arthroscopy: Conditions Treated
Arthroscopy is used to find and treat elbow problems. These include loose bodies, bone spurs, osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), and synovitis.
Personalized Care Starts with the Right Provider
Search by specialty, location, and more.
Find A Doctor
Make an Appointment
Your health can't always wait. Schedule an appointment with a PIH Health provider.
Schedule an Appointment
Find a PIH Health Urgent Care Location
Need care today?. Find the nearest PIH Health Urgent Care location.
Find Urgent Care
