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Outcomes of the Masquelet technique in upper extremity bone defects: A retrospective study
Yusuf Kıratlıoğlu1, Mehmet Yalçın1, Uğur Bezirgan1
1Ankara University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Hand Surgery, Ankara, Turkey.
Introduction:
The reconstruction of upper extremity bone defects remains a complex challenge in orthopedic surgery, frequently arising from trauma, infection, or tumor resection. The Masquelet technique, a two-stage reconstructive approach, has demonstrated promising outcomes in addressing such defects. This study aims to assess the efficacy of the Masquelet technique in the management of upper extremity bone loss.
Methods:
This retrospective study reviewed 13 cases in 10 patients treated with the Masquelet technique between 2015 and 2024. Patient demographics, defect characteristics, surgical details, healing time, complications, and functional outcomes were analyzed. Bone healing was assessed radiographically, while clinical outcomes were evaluated using VAS and QuickDASH scores.
Results:
The mean bone defect length was 4.26 ± 2.46 cm, and the average healing time was 13.6 ± 3.18 weeks. The second-stage surgery was performed at an average of 10.1 ± 4.2 weeks after the first stage. Bone union was achieved in all patients, with three experiencing range of motion limitations. The mean postoperative VAS and QuickDASH scores were 3.54 ± 1.05 and 34.75 ± 11.2, respectively. The average return-to-work time was 5.69 months post-treatment. Only one patient experienced a complication requiring reoperation.
Conclusion:
The Masquelet technique is an effective and reliable option for reconstructing upper extremity bone defects, demonstrating satisfactory bone healing, functional recovery, and low complication rates. Further studies with larger patient groups are needed to validate these findings.
