High-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy for early stage femoral head osteonecrosis: A protocol of systematic review.

Background: Published trials reported that high-energy extracorporeal shock wave therapy (HEEPSWT) can effectively treat early stage femoral head osteonecrosis (ESFHO). However, their results are still inconsistent. Thus, this study will systematically and comprehensively explore the effectiveness and safety of HEEPSWT for ESFHO.
Methods: We will retrieve the electronic databases of Cochrane Library, EMBASE, PubMed, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, VIP database, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure from inception to the present. All randomized controlled trials that focusing on the effectiveness and safety of HEEPSWT for ESFHO will be considered. Two researchers will undertake literature selection, information collection, and risk of bias evaluation separately. If disagreements occur, we will invite a third researcher for consultation and a final decision will be made. Cochrane risk of bias tool, and Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation will be utilized to assess the risk of bias and quality of evidence, respectively. We will perform statistical analysis using RevMan 5.3 software.
Results: This study will provide a detailed summary of exist evidence related to the effectiveness and safety of HEEPSWT for ESFHO.
Conclusion: The results of this study synthesize the evidence regarding the HEEPSWT for ESFHO, which may help to guide clinical management in the future.
Systematic Review Registration: INPLASY202060055.