Pedicled vascularized versus non-vascularized bone grafts in the treatment of scaphoid non-union: a meta-analysis of comparative studies.

BACKGROUND Whether pedicled vascularized bone grafts (PVBGs) are beneficial over non-vascularized bone grafts (NVBGs) still remains controversial. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical results of PVBGs and NVBGs for the treatment of scaphoid non-union. METHODS We conducted a meta-analysis of the published studies comparing outcomes of these two different surgical techniques for scaphoid non-union. Outcomes of union rate, time to union, functional results and re-operation rate were analysed. RESULTS Seven studies including four randomized controlled studies and three retrospective comparative studies with 413 participants were identified fitting inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed that (i) union rate in PVBG groups was 1.13 times of NVBG groups (P = 0.002); (ii) the PVBG groups reached bone union significantly earlier by 1.73 weeks (P   0.05); and (iv) re-operation rate was similar between the two groups (P = 0.65). CONCLUSIONS Although the PVBG technique attains higher union rate and earlier union, this radiological advantage does not bring any functional benefits. In addition, PVBGs are of greater technical difficulty and need more operation requirements. Hence, clinicians should be cautious in electing PVBGs for treating scaphoid non-union.