The number of distal radius fractures treated surgically is increasing, with the volar
Henry approach most commonly used. Traditionally, to directly visualize intra-articular
fracture reductions, a dorsal approach is also used, which can lead to increased morbidity
and operative time. We describe the volar intra-articular extended window approach
for intra-articular distal radius fractures, which allows direct visualization of
fracture reduction from the same volar approach to the distal radius. The volar intra-articular
extended window approach is performed by creating a capsulotomy in the volar wrist
capsule between the long and short radiolunate ligaments while maintaining the integrity
of the short radiolunate ligament to prevent postoperative carpal instability. Using
this approach allows the surgeon to directly visualize the radiocarpal joint to assess
reduction and ensure that no screws are placed intra-articular.
Key words
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References
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: February 21, 2023
Accepted:
September 19,
2022
Received:
June 17,
2022
Publication stage
In Press Corrected ProofFootnotes
The institution of one or more authors (Dr Kamal) has received funding from the National Institute of Health (grant #K23AR73307; principal investigator: Dr Kamal) and the Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation (principal investigator: Dr Kamal). No benefits in any form have been received or will be received by the other authors related directly or indirectly to the subject of this article.
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© 2023 by the American Society for Surgery of the Hand. All rights reserved.
