OTA2017: Early weight bearing associated with improved function after ankle fracture vs delayed WB .
Outcomes of Early Versus Delayed Postoperative Weight Bearing in Patients Undergoing Surgical Fixation of Ankle Fractures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Ten randomized controlled trials and prospective cohort studies were included in this meta-analysis that compared function, complication rate, and reoperation rate between early weight-bearing (within 2 weeks) and late weight-bearing (4-6 weeks) after ankle fracture. At 6 weeks, functional scores significantly favoured early weight-bearing, while functional scores at 1 year were similar between early and late weight-bearing groups. Incidences of nonuion, malunion, wound complications, and reoperation were similar between groups.
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