Generic Volar Locking Plate Use in Distal Radius Fractures: A Prospective Randomized Study to Evaluate Clinical...

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Biomedical Engineering
• Health Economics

Background:

• Distal radius fractures are common, necessitating effective fixation methods.
• Volar locking plates (VLPs) are widely used for treating these fractures.
• Evaluating generic alternatives to conventional VLPs is crucial for cost-effectiveness.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare 90-day clinical outcomes between generic and conventional VLPs in distal radius fractures.
• To assess differences in surgical characteristics and costs.
• To determine the value of care delivery with generic implants.

Main Methods:

• A prospective block-randomized study comparing generic and conventional VLPs.
• Data collected on 90-day readmission, reoperation, and mortality rates.
• Surgical metrics and implant costs were analyzed, including pegs and screws.

Main Results:

• No significant differences in 90-day clinical outcomes (readmission, reoperation, mortality) were observed.
• Average total cost was substantially lower with generic VLPs ($702.38) compared to conventional VLPs ($1348.61).
• Cost savings were primarily driven by differences in pegs and screws.

Conclusions:

• Generic VLPs offer a cost-effective alternative to conventional VLPs for distal radius fractures.
• The use of generic implants does not negatively impact short-term clinical outcomes.
• Adoption of generic VLPs can enhance the value of orthopedic care.