Functional Bracing Versus Rigid Plaster Casting for the Immobilization of Colles Fractures in Adults: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

ABSTRACT: Rigid plaster casting and functional bracing are the 2 most commonly used methods for conservative immobilization in Colles fractures. Despite their widespread use, the optimal approach remains debated. A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar up to April 2025. Six randomized controlled trials involving 697 adult patients were included. Assessed outcomes included Visual Analogue Scale pain scores, modified Gartland and Werley functional scores, grip strength measured as a percentage of the uninjured side, modified Lidström anatomical scores, dorsal angulation, and complication rates including re-manipulation, nerve injury, complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), upper limb dystrophy, swelling, and other adverse events. Pain sco

SUBMITTER: Awad G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12669006 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature