Meta-Analysisvery high evidence

Retrograde intramedullary nailing versus locked plate fixation for distal femur fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials only.

Injury·July 1, 2026·PMID 42202579

Why it matters

Distal femur fractures are challenging, and the choice between nailing and plating involves trade-offs. This high-level evidence clarifies that nailing may reduce infection and speed healing but at the cost of more knee pain and stiffness, helping surgeons counsel patients and tailor fixation to individual priorities.

Infographic summary of Retrograde intramedullary nailing versus locked plate fixation for distal femur fractures: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials only.
Visual abstract · MedLit

The papers that matter, first.

MedLit ranks the medical literature into a specialty feed with concise summaries, evidence-aware triage, and visual takeaways.

§

MedLit · Evidence, Distilled