Volar locking plate versus external fixation for unstable distal radius fractures: a systematic review and meta-analysis based on randomized controlled trials

摘要

The outcomes for volar locking plate (VLP) and external fixation (EF) in distal radius fracture cases remain controversial. The current study of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) aimed to assess VLP and EF, which might benefit distal radius fracture cases. RCTs comparing VLP and EF in distal radius fracture cases, until 18 March 2020, were systematically reviewed and summarized. The functional and radiographic outcomes, together with complications, for distal radius fracture cases, were evaluated. In total, 12 studies comprising 1205 distal radius fracture cases were included. The VLP group had observed lower disability in the arm shoulder and hand score (DASH) at 3rd, 6th, and 12th -month post-operation, with the mean differences (MDs) of ??10.43 (95?% CI = ??15.77 to ??5.08, P 0.05). The VLP group had a lower complication rate than that in the EF group. VLP had a lower DASH score and VAS score but with lower grip strength. No significant differences in radiographic outcomes were observed. VLP had a lower complication rate than that of EF.