Meta-analysis of the clinical efficacy of the Gamma3 nail vs Gamma3U-blade system in the treatment of intertrochanteric fractures

BACKGROUND The traditional Gamma3 nail is a mainstream treatment for femoral intertrochanteric fractures. Literature reports that the Gamma3U-blade system can increase the stability of the Gamma3 nail and reduce complication incidence. However, comparative studies between the Gamma3U-blade and Gamma3 systems are limited; hence, this meta-analysis was performed to explore the clinical efficacy of these two surgical methods. AIM To investigate the clinical efficacy of Gamma3 and Gamma3 U-blade for intertrochanteric fractures. METHODS A computerized search for Chinese and English literature published from 2010 to 2022 was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, CNKI, Wanfang, and VIP databases. The search keywords were gamma 3, gamma 3 U blade, and intertrochanteric fracture. Additionally, literature tracking was performed on the references of published literature. The data were analyzed using Revman 5.3 software. Two individuals checked the inputs for accuracy. Continuous variables were described using mean difference and standard deviation, and outcome effect sizes were expressed using ratio OR and 95% confidence interval (CI). High heterogeneity was considered at (P < 0.05, I 2 > 50%), moderate heterogeneity at I 2 from 25% to 50%, and low heterogeneity at (P ≥ 0.05, I 2 < 50%). RESULTS Following a comprehensive literature search, review, and analysis, six articles were selected for inclusion in this study. This selection comprised five articles in English and one in Chinese, with publication years spanning from 2016 to 2022. The study with the largest sample size, conducted by Seungbae in 2021, included a total of 304 cases. Statistical analysis: A total of 1063 patients were included in this meta-analysis. The main outcome indicators were: Surgical time: The Gamma3U blade system had a longer surgical time compared to Gamma3 nails (P = 0.006, I 2 = 76%). Tip-apex distance: No statistical significance or heterogeneity was observed (P = 0.65, I 2 = 0%). Harris Hip score: No statistical significance was found, and low heterogeneity was detected (P = 0.26, I 2 = 22%). Union time: No statistical significance was found, and high heterogeneity was detected (P = 0.05, I 2 = 75%). CONCLUSION Our study indicated that the Gamma3 system reduces operative time compared to the Gamma3 U-blade system in treating intertrochanteric fractures. Both surgical methods proved to be safe and effective for this patient group. These findings may offer valuable insights and guidance for future surgical protocols in hip fracture patients.