Evaluating Kirschner wire fixation versus titanium plating and screws for unstable phalangeal fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis of postoperative outcomes

Abstract

BackgroundUnstable phalangeal fractures represent a clinical challenge in hand surgery. The choice of fixation method, whether Kirschner wire (K-wire) fixation or titanium plating with screws, often depends on surgeon preference due to the lack of comprehensive comparative data. This article aimed to compare the postoperative outcomes of K-wire fixation versus titanium plating and screws in the treatment of unstable phalangeal fractures. MethodsThis review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analyses. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the existing literature was done encompassing PUBMED, EMBASE, Google Scholar, and Cochrane library using the keywords: “K wire/ Kirschner wire”, “titanium plate/ screws”, “Miniplate/ screws”, and “Unstable phalan∗ fracture/ hand fracture”. ResultsAfter screening 2374 articles, 6 final studies with a total of 414 patients were included. Operative time was significantly shorter with K-wire fixation compared to plating, by a mean difference of -27.03 ​min [95% CI -43.80, -10.26] (p ​= ​0.02). Time to radiographic union averaged 7.43 weeks with K-wires versus 8.21 weeks with titanium plates. No statistically significant differences emerged between groups for overall complications (p ​= ​0.69), infection (p ​= ​0.47), malunion (p ​= ​0.36), stiffness (p ​= ​0.11), or need for reoperation (p ​= ​0.10). ConclusionK-wire fixation demonstrated shorter mean operating time and faster radiographic union versus plating for unstable phalangeal fractures. These findings can guide surgical decisions and emphasize the need for individualized treatment based on fracture type and patient factors.