Lateral plating improves motion and reduces complications in proximal phalanx fracturesLateral Plating Shows Better Outcomes for Finger Bone Fractures

Hand (New York, N.Y.) Published July 26, 2026 Study authors: Deng Danny, Leon Viktoria, Baba Mohammed PubMed ↗ DOI ↗ Editorial oversight: Dr. Lars van Dijk, PhD · Surgical, Procedural & Diagnostic

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Key Takeaway

Consider lateral plating for proximal phalanx fractures to potentially improve motion and reduce complications.

This meta-analysis synthesized evidence from 7 studies comparing lateral versus dorsal plating approaches for proximal phalanx fractures. The primary outcome was total active motion, which was significantly greater with the lateral approach (mean difference 16.03°). Secondary outcomes favored lateral plating: complication rates were 1.52 times higher in the dorsal group, grip strength was higher, and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores were lower (indicating better function).

Specific confidence intervals and p-values for these outcomes were not reported in the abstract, which tempers the strength of the conclusions. The analysis did not report sample sizes, follow-up duration, or funding sources. No serious adverse events or discontinuations were noted.

Despite these limitations, the findings suggest a consistent advantage for lateral plating across multiple endpoints. Clinicians may consider this approach when surgical fixation is indicated, but should interpret the results cautiously given the lack of reported precision metrics.

Researchers looked at how different surgical methods affect patients with fractured bones in the finger, specifically the proximal phalanx. They compared two techniques: a lateral plating approach and a dorsal plating approach. The study focused on how well these methods helped patients regain movement and strength after surgery.

The results showed that patients who had the lateral plating approach had significantly more total active motion than those who had the dorsal approach. These patients also reported better scores on disability scales for the arm, shoulder, and hand. Additionally, the group with the lateral approach showed higher grip strength compared to the other group.

Safety data indicated that complications were 1.52 times higher in the dorsal approach. While this meta-analysis of seven studies suggests that the lateral plating method is a more effective way to fix these specific fractures, patients should discuss surgical options with their doctors. Because this is an analysis of existing studies, individual results may vary based on the specific injury.

What this means for you:

Lateral plating shows better motion and fewer complications for proximal phalanx fractures than dorsal plating.

Common questions

What are the benefits of a lateral plating approach?

Patients who received the lateral plating approach showed significantly greater total active motion compared to those who had dorsal plating. They also demonstrated higher grip strength and lower scores on disability scales for the arm, shoulder, and hand.

Are there risks associated with different surgical methods?

The study found that complication rates were 1.52 times higher in the dorsal plating approach than in the lateral plating approach. These findings suggest that the lateral method may be a safer option for certain patients.

How does this affect recovery from finger fractures?

The results suggest that the lateral plating approach is more effective for fixing proximal phalanx fractures because it leads to better movement and strength. You should talk to your doctor about which surgical method is best for your specific injury.

Study Details

Study typeMeta analysis

EvidenceLevel 1

PublishedJul 2026

PMID41103176

View Original Abstract ↓

BACKGROUND: Fractures of the proximal phalanx are common hand injuries. Fracture plating is used to achieve anatomical alignment and stable fixation. Dorsal plating is the standard practice; however, it can be associated with complications due to scarring around the extensor tendon. Lateral plating is gaining popularity due its extensor sparing approach. This study is a systematic review and meta-analysis that aims to compare the outcomes of the 2 approaches. METHODS: MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane, and PubMed databases were searched. Data relevant to total active motion, complications, Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores, and grip strength were extracted. RESULTS: Seven studies were included. Total active motion was significantly greater in the lateral plating approach with a mean difference of 16.03°. Complication rates in the dorsal approach were 1.52 times higher. Grip strength was higher and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores were lower in the lateral plating group. CONCLUSION: This study demonstrates evidence favoring the lateral plating approach when fixing proximal phalanx fractures.

Lateral plating improves motion and reduces complications in proximal phalanx fracturesLateral Plating Shows Better Outcomes for Finger Bone Fractures

Common questions

Study Details

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Lateral plating improves motion and reduces complications in proximal phalanx fracturesLateral Plating Shows Better Outcomes for Finger Bone Fractures

Common questions

Study Details

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound shows a 0.79 healing rate in nonunion fractures across observational studies

Trial results show mixed success for ultrasound on nonunion fractures

Clinical research that matters. Delivered to your inbox.

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