Volar Locking Plate Compared to Conservative Treatment in Distal Radius Fractures in Elderly Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Description

In this presentation, Reinmary Michael, a fourth-year medical student at Université Laval, discusses a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing volar locking plating (VLP) with conservative treatment for distal radial fractures (DRFs) in elderly patients. The review highlights the prevalence of these fractures, particularly in individuals over 60, and the ongoing debate regarding the effectiveness of surgical versus non-surgical treatments, especially in the context of osteoporosis. Michael outlines the methodology used to identify relevant studies, leading to the selection of five randomized controlled trials with a total of 539 patients. The primary outcomes assessed were functional scores, including the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) and the Patient-Rated Wrist Evaluation (PRWE). The findings demonstrated that VLP resulted in superior functional outcomes and strength compared to conservative treatment, although range of motion was largely unaffected. The review also noted complications observed in both groups and emphasized the need for further high-quality research to substantiate these findings and better understand the risks associated with surgical interventions.

DOI: 10.1302/3114-222003

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