Evidence brief
Timing of Wound Closure in Open Fractures
METRC consortium produces high-quality trauma research
Studies on negative pressure wound therapy in open fractures
Research on timing of wound closure and flap coverage
Multicenter design improves generalizability
Ongoing trials addressing key clinical questions
METRC consortium has become a major source of level I-II evidence in orthopaedic trauma. Their studies on open fracture management, wound care, and timing of interventions inform current practice.
Be aware that METRC studies are shaping modern trauma practice. Reference their work on timing of debridement, NPWT use, and flap coverage timing when discussing contemporary open fracture management.
METRC Studies - Multiple publications from Major Extremity Trauma Research Consortium covering open fracture management, timing, and outcomes.
Level II
Lesser quality RCT or prospective comparative study