A proposed surgical strategy for complex articular distal radius fractures: The Marseille approach for radius salvage (MARS) - 26/08/26
, Camille Brenac a, Tim Carpentier a, Lucas Audiffret a, Rémy Dubian a, Antoine Martins dAbstract |
Introduction |
Complex intra-articular distal radius fractures with severe comminution or fragment rotation may be difficult to reduce using conventional fixation. We describe a dorsal salvage strategy, the Marseille Approach for Radius Salvage (MARS), enabling direct articular visualization in selected cases.
Hypothesis |
The MARS strategy allows reliable reduction and acceptable short-term functional outcomes in fractures not amenable to standard fixation.
Materials and Methods |
Single-center prospective case series (May 2021–October 2025). CT assessed reduction quality (step-off ≤ 2 mm). Functional outcomes at 1 year included motion, grip strength, pain, and QuickDASH.
Results |
Among 252 intra-articular fractures, 12 patients were included. All achieved satisfactory reduction on CT with maintenance at 6 months. At 1 year, pronosupination was preserved with mild extension loss and satisfactory pain and QuickDASH scores. One superficial infection and one mild tendon irritation requiring plate removal occurred; no tendon ruptures or CRPS were observed.
Discussion |
The MARS strategy enables direct articular visualization and stable reconstruction and may be useful in fracture-dislocations or markedly rotated fragments where conventional techniques are challenging.
Conclusion |
MARS strategy represents a pragmatic salvage option for highly complex intra-articular distal radius fractures when conventional strategies are insufficient.
Level of Evidence |
III; Prospective case series.
Le texte complet de cet article est disponible en PDF.Keywords : Distal radius fracture, Volar locking plate, Dorsal approach, Radiocarpal joint, Specific fixation, wrist fracture
Plan
Vol 112 - N° 5
Article 104702- septembre 2026 Retour au numéro
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