18 studies were identified (564 fractures) that assessed the use of open versus closed reduction in young adults with sustained displaced and undisplaced intracapsular hip fractures. The results of the meta-analysis indicate that non-union and avascular necrosis occurred more frequently following displaced fractures than undisplaced fractures. Furthermore, the incidence of non-union was significantly higher after open reduction than closed reduction. There was no significant difference in avascular necrosis following open and closed reduction or in non-union and avascular necrosis following early or late surgery.