Internal versus external fixation for unstable distal radius fractures: an up-to-date meta-analysis

Ten randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 738 patients were identified in this meta-analysis to compare the effect of internal and external fixation for distal radius fractures. Outcome measures of interest involved postoperative complications, clinical results, and radiological outcomes. Results revealed that internal fixation led to significantly fewer surgical complications and reduced the incidence of pin-track infections. Moreover, internal fixation produced superior results regarding clinical outcome in comparison to external fixation.