Background: Evaluating ulnar variance (UV) and triangular fibrocartilage complex (TFCC) is crucial since they
might have dual effects on the wrist structure and function. This study aims to assess some anthropometric
measurements of the wrists of the Saudi population using MRI.
Materials and methods: A cross-sectional retrospective study was conducted on 64 wrist normal MR images.
Sociodemographic characteristics were retrieved and kept confidential. Image analysis was performed on Digital
Imaging and Communications in Medicine files. UV and TFCC thickness and angle were measured in the same
slice. Statistical analysis was conducted, and a significance <0.05 was considered.
Results: The ages of the selected sample ranged from 18 to 67 years; 45 were males, and 19 were females with 32
right and 32 left wrists. The cases showed 59.4 % negative UV and 40.6 % positive UV (mean ± SD of - 2.24 ±
0.55 and 1.59 ± 0.48). TFCC thickness mean ± SD of 2.34 ± 0.61, and its angle mean ± SD of 32.39 ± 4.68.
Significant differences were elaborated between the positive and negative UV population in the means of UV,
TFCC thickness, and angle (p < 0.001). Also, age-dependent significant differences were detected in the UV value
and TFCC thickness (p = 0.042 and 0.013). Correlation and linear regression showed substantial relations between UV and TFCC thickness and angle. Also, TFCC thickness with the angle.
Conclusion: This study provided a valuable guide for evaluating and managing wrist problems in Saudis and
primary data for further investigations.
