Morphology and Distribution of Nerve Endings in the Human Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex

Abstract

We studied the morphology and distribution of nerve endings in the human triangular fibrocartilage complex using both silver staining and immunohistochemical staining using a protein specific to nerve fibres. Free nerve endings were found in the ulnar side of the triangular fibrocartilage complex, especially in the ulnar collateral ligament, meniscus homologue and the adjacent collagen fibre area of the peripheral part of the ulnar side of the articular disc. Meissner's and Krause's corpuscles were observed in the ulnar collateral ligament and meniscus homologue. The fact that free nerve endings were observed in the meniscus homologue and adjacent collagen fibre area of the peripheral part of the ulnar side of the articular disc suggests that this disc may be a source of wrist pain. The presence of nerve end bulbs in the triangular fibrocartilage complex also suggests a possible role for corpuscles as mechanoreceptors.

Repair of the Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex After Ulnar-Shortening Osteotomy: Second-Look Arthroscopy

“…10 Similar to the interior part of the knee meniscus, the central and radial aspects of the TFCC display neither nerve fibers nor vessels. [11][12][13] This avascular arrangement of the central portion of the TFCC seems to offer no potential for healing. 14 Although the avascular area of the meniscus shows poorer healing capacity than the vascularized area, damage to the peripheral synovium promotes the healing of torn menisci even in the avascular area.…”

Role of Low-Affinity Nerve Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitory Antibody in Reducing Pain Behavior and Calcitonin Gene-Related Peptide Expression in a Rat Model of Wrist Joint Inflammatory Pain

“…1 Histological examination of wrist joint structures including the triangular fibrocartilage complex and the intercarpal ligament has demonstrated the presence of various mechanoreceptors and sensory nerve endings. [2][3][4][5] Pain from nerve endings in the wrist joint is transmitted to the dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and spinal dorsal horn.…”

Mechanoreceptors and nerve endings of the triangular fibrocartilage in the human wrist

“…Pain and the sensation of instability should be associated with alterations or compromise of the nerve structures presented in the fibrocartilage tissue. 1 Proprioception is a sensorial specialization accomplished through the touch, movement sensation, and position, and is detected by mechanoreceptors in the skin, muscles, and joint. 2 These mechanoreceptors represent the first line of defense that ensures sensation concerning the safe limits of range of movement of the joint.…”