Comparison between two methods of fixation of Second and Third Metacarpal shaft Fractures: A Meta-analysis

Abstract

ABSTRACT:Background: Metacarpal bone fractures considered one of the common skeletal fractures, accounting for 36% of all hand and wrist fractures.Patients and Methods: Only clinical studies of both methods used in the management of closed fractures of the second and third metacarpals were included in this review. It also included studies comparing open reduction and int. fixation with plate and screws Vs. percutaneous crossed K -wire fixation for metacarpal fractures. The Ten papers included in the systematic review and meta – analysis were retrospective cohort studies published between 2003 and 2019. The aim of this study is to evaluate the final results and postoperative complications for two methods of fixation within the treatment of fractures of Second and Third metacarpal bones: fixation with plate and screws Vs. percutaneous crossed K -wire.Results: No specifications used for the pattern of fracture, except for the fractures involving shaft of the second and the third metacarpals. All fractures needed to be operated due to deformity, angulations or rotation. No correlation could be done between types of fracture (i.e., spiral, oblique) and functional outcome. As all studies disscused the same indication for intervention, and on the other side, a correlation between type of fixation and functional outcome could be done.Conclusion: No recommendation made that one fixation technique is superior to another, and the complications associated with ORIF or k -wire fixation in the management of metacarpal fractures are distinct.Key words: Open Reduction - Internal Fixation - Percutaneous Kirschner Wires Fixation- fracture 2nd and 3rd metacarpalsFinancial disclosure: The authors received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.