Symptomatic treatment or cast immobilisation for avulsion fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal: a prospective, randomised, single-blinded non-inferiority controlled trial

Foot Malalignment and Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Fractures

BACKGROUND

Proximal fifth metatarsal fractures are common injuries that are classified into 3 zones according to their anatomical localization. While zone 1 and 2 fractures typically are traumatic, zone 3 fractures may be linked to foot alignment abnormalities, such as hindfoot varus and metatarsus adductus. The aim of the study was to explore the association between hindfoot alignment and different fracture zones, as well as the relationship between traumatic and atraumatic fracture origin and foot alignment.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with proximal fifth metatarsal fractures who had received a weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT) scan. Feet with zone 1 and 2 fractures were compared to zone 3 fractures and a healthy control group. Additionally, we compared feet with a traumatic fracture origin with those without. Foot alignment parameters, including the foot and ankle offset (FAO) and the forefoot arch angle (FAA), were analyzed alongside data from semiautomated segmentation reports. P <.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

The study included 45 fractures (23 zone 1 and 2, 22 zone 3) and 19 controls. Zone 3 fractures showed a significant association with higher body mass index (P < .01), hindfoot varus (P < .01), and metatarsus adductus (P < .01) compared with zone 1 and 2 fractures, and they more frequently had a nontraumatic origin (P < .01). Zone 3 fractures also showed a significantly higher transverse arch (P < .01). No differences have been observed between zone 1 and 2 fractures and the controls. Fractures with atraumatic origin were significantly associated with hindfoot varus (P < .01), metatarsus adductus (P < .01), hindfoot varus (P < .01), and metatarsus adductus (P < .01).

CONCLUSION

Hindfoot varus, metatarsus adductus, and a high transverse arch were significantly associated with zone 3 fractures as well as fractures with atraumatic origin.

The comparative study of clinical outcomes among early functional treatment, immobilization treatment and ulnar plate fixation for displaced or comminution fifth metatarsal base fractures

The optimal treatment for displaced or comminution fifth metatarsal base fractures remain debated. Ninety displaced or comminution fifth metatarsal base fractures patients were randomly selected into three groups: the ulnar hook plate fixation group (n=30), the immobilization treatment group (n=18), and the early functional group (n=30). The assessed factors included the duration until union, time to resume daily activities, American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, Foot and Ankle Disability Index (FADI) scores, visual analog scale (VAS) ratings and occurrence of complications. The VAS scores showed no significant differences observed among the three treatments. The mean AOFAS score and mean FADI after treatment in the plate group and exhibited significant better than that of the immobilization group and the early functional group at 1 moth, 3 months and 6 months (P˂0.05). After a duration of 12 months, all three treatments exhibited comparable outcomes and facilitated restoration of daily activities. In the plate group, one patient developed a wound infection, one patient experienced sural nerve injury or irritation, and three patients exhibited implant prominence. One patient encountered nonunion in the immobilization group.The union time and the time of return to daily activities and the early functional group exhibited significant shorter durations than that of the immobilization group and the plate group(P˂0.05). Overall, the early functional treatment is recommended for managing displaced or comminution fifth metatarsal base fractures.

Functional outcome and risk of non-union for 5th metatarsal base fractures

OBJECTIVES

Treatment of 5th metatarsal fractures via direct discharge from virtual fracture clinic (VFC) has become common practice in the NHS. We aim to assess the functional outcome and incidence of non-union in a series of 5th metatarsal base fractures, exposed to 1-year of follow-up.

METHODS

194 patients who sustained a fracture between the period February 2019 to April 2020 were included, referred via the VFC pathway. Radiographs were reviewed to classify in which zone, the fracture occurred along with union on subsequent follow-up. Telephone follow-up was used to measure patient functional outcomes (EQ-5D & FAAM survey) and satisfaction with the VFC service.

RESULTS

Off 194 patients, 53 (27.3%) had zone 1, 99 (51%) had zone 2, and 42 (21.6%) had zone 3 fractures. 80 were discharged directly from VFC, with 114 patients being offered at least one face to face clinic follow-up. Six (3.1%) patients had clinical and radiological evidence of non-union; 4 in zone 2, and 2 in zone 3. No zone 1 injuries were identified as a non-union. Only 2 patients had surgery, 1 of which was for symptomatic non-union. Of the 6 non-union patients, 1 had surgery, 4 did not wish to have surgery and the final non-union patient was deemed unsuitable for surgery.

CONCLUSION

The VFC is an effective way of managing 5th metatarsal fractures, with high patient satisfaction. Conservative management has excellent outcomes, with a low percentage of zone 2 and 3 injuries developing a symptomatic non-union. Functional outcome surveys provide further reassurance.

Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Fractures: A Retrospective Study of 834 Fractures With a Minimum Follow-up of 5 Years

BACKGROUND

Proximal fifth metatarsal fractures are common fractures. Treatment strategies have been debated. We wanted to investigate whether Lawrence and Botte's classification has prognostic value because of time to fracture union, and evaluate if weightbearing as tolerated (WBAT) and nonweightbearing (NWB) treatment strategy had effect on time to fracture union in nonoperatively treated fractures.

METHODS

Computerized database search, patients diagnosed between January 1, 2003, and December 31, 2015.

RESULTS

We identified 834 fractures; 510 (61.2%) zone 1, 157 (18.8%) zone 2, and 167 (20.0%) zone 3. Most (94.4%) were treated nonoperatively; time to fracture union was 7.5 (SD 7.7), 7.7 (5.6), and 9.2 (8.1) weeks for zone 1, 2, and 3, respectively, which gave a significant longer time to union for zone 3 compared to zone 1 fractures (P = .04). There was no difference in time to fracture union when comparing WBAT and NWB for all fracture zones. Failure to union, defined as crossover to surgery and/or delayed union, was found in 13 (2.7%) zone 1, 5 (3.2%) zone 2, and 6 (3.8%) zone 3 fractures. Refracture during follow-up was found in 3 (0.6%) zone 1 and 14 (8.9%) zone 3 fractures.

CONCLUSION

Proximal fifth metatarsal fractures have high union rates with nonoperative treatment. No difference in time to union could be found between WBAT and NWB treatment strategies for all fracture zones. We observed a significantly longer time to fracture union for zone 3 fractures compared to zone 1 fractures. Refracture occurs in a nonnegligible share of nonoperatively treated zone 3 fractures.

[Functional outcome of 111 metatarsal fractures following conservative in comparison to operative treatment]

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the metatarsal bones are common injuries of the foot and particularly occur in patients aged 40-50 years. Especially multiple metatarsal fractures can lead to permanent limitations. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the functional outcome of metatarsal fractures after conservative and surgical treatment using a validated self-reported patient-based outcome questionnaire.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All patients suffering from metatarsal fractures between 2003 and 2015 were enrolled in this retrospective analysis. The following data were collected: demographic data, AO classification, treatment, reoperation rate and the foot and ankle outcome score (FAOS). For outcome analysis, the nonparametric Mann-Whitney U‑test and Fisher's exact test were performed.

RESULTS

In total the functional outcome of 111 patients with metatarsal fractures were analyzed, 81 patients suffered of an isolated metatarsal fracture and 30 of multiple fractures. The mean age of the patients was 45 ± 15.2 years with a total of 48 men (43%) and 63 women (57%). Patients with an isolated metatarsal fracture had an FAOS of 88 ± 17.1, while patients with multiple metatarsal fractures achieved an FAOS of 78 ± 17.7 (p = 0.046). In the group of isolated metatarsal fractures 43 patients (53%) were surgically treated and of these 36 patients showed a type C fracture (84%). In the group of multiple metatarsal fractures 16 patients (53%) underwent operative treatment.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the functional outcome of isolated metatarsal fractures following operative as well as conservative treatment is good to very good. Simple fractures can be successfully treated conservatively and complex multifragment fractures can be safely managed surgically. If more than one metatarsal bone is fractured, the functional outcome is significantly worse with patients reporting lasting limitations involving the range of motion and stiffness.

Short leg cast versus orthotic removable support for the management of pseudo-Jones avulsion fracture: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture (i.e., Pseudo-Jones fracture) is one of the most common foot fractures. The management of pseudo-Jones fractures could be carried out surgically or conservatively. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to provide an update about the efficacy of orthotic removable support compared to short-leg casting for individuals with pseudo-Jones fracture.

METHODS

We searched Embase, Medline, and Cochrane Central register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the clinical outcomes of orthotic removable support and short-leg cast for adult individuals with a fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture. We used 95% as a confidence level and P <0.05 as a threshold. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was used for the continuous outcomes, and the risk ratio (RR) was used for the dichotomous outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 6 RCTs incorporating 403 individuals out were deemed eligible. There was no significant difference between orthotic removable support and short-leg casting regarding AOFAS score (standardized mean difference (SMD)= 0.31, 95% CI -0.17 to 0.8), pain on VAS score (SMD= -0.08, 95% CI -0.39 to 0.22), VAS-FA score (SMD= 0.22, 95% CI -0.19 to 0.62) EQ-5D VAS score, and non-union rate (RR=0.37, 95% CI 0.05 to 2.74).

CONCLUSION

The current meta-analysis reveals that there is no difference between orthotic removable support and short-leg casting for the conservative management of individuals sustaining pseudo-Jones fracture.

Functional outcome of 103 fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal bone

Background

Metatarsal fractures are common skeletal injuries of the lower extremity in adults. The majority involves the proximal fifth metatarsal bone. In the current literature, there still exists controversy regarding treatment recommendations for the different fracture entities.

Methods

All patients suffering from single fractures to the proximal fifth metatarsal bone between 2003 and 2015 were enrolled in this retrospective analysis. Only patients with a minimum follow-up of 12 months were included. The fractures were classified according to Lawrence and Botte (L&B). Data were collected via patient registry, radiographs and a standardized questionnaire (Foot and Ankle Outcome Score = FOAS). For outcome analysis, the nonparametric Mann–Whitney U test was performed and Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient calculated.

Results

In total, the functional outcomes of 103 patients suffering from fractures to the proximal fifth metatarsal bone were analyzed. L&B type I fractures (n = 13) had a FAOS score of 91 ± 23, L&B type II (n = 67) presented a score of 91 ± 15 and L&B type III (n = 23) a score of 93 ± 11. Surgically treated patients with an L&B type II fracture had no statistically significant better functional outcome in comparison to conservative management (p = 0.89). Operatively treated L&B type III fractures tended to have a better functional score (p = 0.16). The follow-up time was 58 (min: 15; max: 164) months.

Conclusions

Overall, the functional outcome following fractures to the proximal fifth metatarsal bone is satisfactory. Conservatively treated L&B type II fractures showed an equivalent functional outcome compared to surgical management. Patients with an L&B type III fracture mainly were treated surgically, but difference in FAOS score did not reach level of significance.

Fractures of the Base of the Fifth Metatarsal Bone: A Critical Analysis Review

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Fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal (PFMT) are one of the most common foot injuries, accounting for 61% to 78% of all foot fractures, but full consensus on their classification, diagnosis, and treatment has not yet been reached.

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The most commonly accepted classification is that of Lawrence and Botte, who divided the location of PFMT fractures into 3 zones with respect to their healing potential.

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Avulsion fractures of the tuberosity of the base (zone 1) generally heal well, and nonoperative treatment is commonly recommended.

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Internal fixation may be considered for displaced fractures that extend into the fourth-fifth intermetatarsal joint (zone 2) as well as for nondisplaced fractures in athletes or high-demand patients, with the aims of reducing the healing time and expediting return to sport or work.

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Stress fractures of the proximal diaphysis (zone 3) are preferably treated operatively, particularly in the presence of signs of delayed union. With nonoperative treatment, supportive measures such as ultrasonography or external/extracorporeal shockwave therapy have been demonstrated to have limited potential for the enhancement of fracture-healing.

Early Active Rehabilitation Treatment for a Patient with a Stable Type of Fifth Metatarsal Base Fracture: a Case Report

In China, the stable type of fifth metatarsal base fracture is usually treated by rehabilitation methods after the limbs have been fixed for approximately 4 weeks. A 37-year-old woman fractured her fifth metatarsal base, with a stable fracture type. From the second day of the fracture onward, she agreed to participate in rehabilitative treatment that did not involve surgery or long-term fixation. Fourteen days after the fracture, the patient was able to bear 100% of her body weight and stand for 20 min in a normal posture with supportive elbow crutches. She was able to return to work with double elbow crutches after 25 days. On the 30^th day after the fracture, the patient was able to walk 300 m outdoors without any walking aids and with no discomfort. Two months after the fracture, the patient went jogging and was participating in all of her normal daily activities. This case shows that, for stable type fractures of the fifth metatarsal base, rehabilitation starting on the second day after the fracture can help accelerate the patient’s return to normal physical activities.

Fifth Metatarsal Fracture-A Systematic Review of the Treatment of Fractures of the Base of the Fifth Metatarsal Bone

BACKGROUND

Metatarsal fractures are among the most common foot and ankle injuries, with an annual incidence of 6.7 per 100 000 persons. Approximately 30% of metatarsal fractures affect the base of the fifth metatarsal bone. Nevertheless, no evidence-based treatment recommendations are available to date.

METHODS

The three fracture localizations according to Lawrence and Botte (zone I, proximal to the intermetatarsal joint between the fourth and fifth metatarsal bones; zone II, in the area of the joint; zone III, at the distal end of the joint) are analyzed on the basis of a systematic literature search. Studies were included that compared the treatment of two types of fracture in the same manner, or that compared two different treatments for a single type of fracture.

RESULTS

Nine studies compared different treatments of zone I fractures. Two of these were randomized controlled trials (RCTs); in one RCT, patients given functional therapy returned to work much sooner than those treated with immobilization (11 vs. 28 days; p = 0.001), with otherwise similar outcomes. The non-randomized studies revealed a faster return to full function (33 vs. 46 days; p<0.05) with early functional therapy, and similar outcomes for immobilization and surgery. One RCT that compared functional therapy with immobilization for zone II fractures revealed no statistically significant difference. Five studies compared fractures in zones I and II that were treated in the same manner, revealing similar outcomes. One RCT compared surgery and immobilization for zone III fractures: surgery led to statistically significant improvement of the outcome in all of the measured parameters.

CONCLUSION

Fractures in zones I and II should be treated with early functional therapy. There seems to be no reason to consider zone I and II fractures as two separate entities, as the outcomes in the two groups are similar. In contrast, fractures in zone III should primarily be treated surgically.

Hard-Soled Shoe Versus Short Leg Cast for a Fifth Metatarsal Base Avulsion Fracture: A Multicenter, Noninferiority, Randomized Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to determine whether tolerated weight-bearing in a hard-soled shoe was noninferior to the use of a short leg cast for the treatment of a fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture, as assessed with use of a 100-mm visual analog scale (VAS) for pain at 6 months after the fracture.

METHODS

A total of 145 patients were assessed for eligibility. Of these, 96 patients were randomly assigned to either the hard-soled shoe group (46 patients) or the cast group (50 patients). The primary outcome measure was the mean difference on the 100-mm VAS between groups at 6 months after the fracture. Secondary outcome measures included the time to return to preinjury activity and patient-reported satisfaction. Analysis was performed according to both an intention-to-treat basis (i.e., patients were included in the assessment of their assigned treatment arm, even if they crossed over to the other treatment arm prior to completing the 6-month follow-up) and a per-protocol basis (i.e., patients who completed the 6-month follow-up were analyzed according to the treatment they received).

RESULTS

At 6 months after the fracture, the mean 100-mm VAS was 8.6 ± 7.0 mm in the hard-soled shoe group and 9.8 ± 7.3 mm in the cast group (p = 0.41) according to intention-to-treat analysis. The mean difference in 100-mm VAS between the 2 groups was -1.3 mm (95% confidence interval, -4.3 to 1.8 mm). The upper limit of the 95% confidence interval did not exceed the noninferiority margin of 10 mm, indicating that treatment with the hard-soled shoe was noninferior to treatment with the short leg cast. The proportion of patients who reported satisfaction with their treatment was similar between the hard-soled shoe and cast groups (89.5% compared with 87.5%, respectively; p = 0.79), but the time to return to preinjury activity was significantly shorter in the hard-soled shoe group (37.2 ± 14.4 days compared with 43.0 ± 11.1 days in the cast group; p = 0.04). There were no cases of nonunion in either group.

CONCLUSIONS

Weight-bearing as tolerated in a hard-soled shoe for a fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture was noninferior to the use of a short leg cast as assessed with use of a 100-mm VAS at 6 months after the fracture. Patient-reported satisfaction was similar between groups, but the time to return to preinjury activity was shorter in the hard-soled shoe group.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

Biomechanical Comparison of Hook Plate vs Headless Compression Screw Fixation of Large Fifth Metatarsal Base Avulsion Fractures

BACKGROUND

Debate exists on the optimum fixation construct for large avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base. We compared the biomechanical strength of 2 headless compression screws vs a hook plate for fixation of these fractures.

METHODS

Large avulsion fractures were simulated on 10 matched pairs of fresh-frozen cadaveric specimens. Specimens were assigned to receive two 2.5-mm headless compression screws or an anatomic fifth metatarsal hook plate, then cyclically loaded through the plantar fascia and metatarsal base. Specimens underwent 100 cycles at 50%, 75%, and 100% physiological load for a total of 300 cycles.

RESULTS

The hook plate group demonstrated a significantly higher number of cycles to failure compared with the screw group (270.7 ± 66.0 [range 100-300] cycles vs 178.6 ± 95.7 [range 24-300] cycles, respectively; P = .039). Seven of 10 hook plate specimens remained intact at the maximum 300 cycles compared with 2 of 10 screw specimens. Nine of 10 plate specimens survived at least 1 cycle at 100% physiologic load compared with 5 of 10 screw specimens.

CONCLUSION

A hook plate construct was biomechanically superior to a headless compression screw construct for fixation of large avulsion fractures of the fifth metatarsal base.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Whether using hook plates or headless compression screws, surgeons should consider protecting patient weight-bearing after fixation of fifth metatarsal base large avulsion fracture until bony union has occurred.

Jones Fracture Management in Athletes

Jones fractures in both elite and recreational athletes are best treated with surgical fixation, given superior results as compared to nonoperative management. While screw specifics remain controversial, intramedullary screw fixation is established as the standard surgical technique. Plate fixation also has shown excellent outcomes. Complications of refracture, nonunion, and delayed union require careful evaluation for contributions of early return to play, implant characteristics, and anatomic/metabolic abnormality. Revision fixation with autograft and biologic augmentation is supported in the literature, with ongoing inquiry to optimizing specific implants and adjuvants.

Isokinetic Strength Comparison of Tuberosity Fractures of the Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Treated With Elastic Bandage vs Cast

BACKGROUND

The aim of this study was to compare the strength of injured and healthy ankle muscle as well as functional and clinical outcomes between patients with proximal fifth metatarsal tuberosity fractures who received elastic bandage treatment and those who received cast immobilization.

METHODS

Sixty-five patients who presented to our clinic between February 2018 and April 2019 were randomly divided into 2 groups: 33 received elastic bandages (group 1) and 32 received cast immobilization (group 2). All patients were scheduled for follow-up appointments at our clinic after 2, 4, 8, 12, and 24 weeks. Visual analog scale-foot and ankle (VAS-FA) score, time missed from work, and using assistive devices were recorded as clinical outcomes. Both ankle plantarflexion-dorsiflexion and inversion-eversion muscle strengths (peak torque) were measured using an isokinetic dynamometer for each group and were compared with those of the healthy extremities.

RESULTS

The mean missed work was 11.3 days in group 1 and 27.6 days in group 2. Groups 1 and 2 used assistive devices for a mean of 6.7 and 16.2 days, respectively (P = .001). Group 1 had a significantly higher VAS-FA score at the 2nd, 4th, and 8th week of follow-up compared with group 2, and no significant differences were observed at the time of injury and at the 12th and 24th weeks. The muscle strength deficits in group 1 were present at the 4th week, whereas those in the cast immobilization group were determined at the 4th and 8th weeks in all muscles. During the 12th and 24th week of follow-up, no significantly differences in both extremities were observed between the groups.

CONCLUSION

Elastic bandage treatment was better than cast immobilization in terms of preserving ankle muscle strength, clinical outcomes, and functional scores regardless of the degree of fracture displacement. Moreover, the present study emphasized that cast immobilization offered no advantages in this fracture treatment.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level I, prognostic randomized controlled trial.

Results of Functional Treatment of Epi-Metaphyseal Fractures of the Base of the Fifth Metatarsal

BACKGROUND

Fractures of the fifth metatarsal base (5th MT) are common foot injuries, but their treatment remains a subject of debate. The aim was to assess the midterm outcome of functionally treated epi-metaphyseal fractures (Lawrence and Botte types I and II) of the 5th MT.

METHODS

This study was a longitudinal retrospective database study with prospective follow-up. Included were all patients with an acute, isolated fracture to the 5th MT base (types I and II). All patients were treated functionally: weightbearing as tolerated without immobilization. Fracture types and fracture characteristics (displacement <2 mm/>2 mm, articular involvement, number of fragments) were assessed retrospectively. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) including the visual analog scale for foot and ankle (VAS FA) and the quality-of-life score (QoL) SF-12 were collected prospectively at 2- and 5-year follow-up. Out of 95 patients, 43 patients (45%) were included with a median follow-up of 5.7 (1.5) years.

RESULTS

For both the VAS FA and SF-12, excellent scores were observed. For 30 patients (77%), longitudinal 2- and 5-year follow-up was available. No significant longitudinal changes could be observed for the VAS FA and SF-12. For both time points, neither fracture type nor characteristics significantly influenced any outcome parameter assessed.

CONCLUSION

Functional treatment by full weightbearing and free range of motion led to excellent 5-year results for both type I and II fractures. Neither fracture location nor characteristics had a significant influence on the 5-year PROMs.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, comparative study.

Acute Fifth Metatarsal Tuberosity Fractures: A Systematic Review of Nonoperative Treatment

OBJECTIVE

Acute metatarsal fractures are a common lower extremity injury. Although surgery may be recommended in specific cases, most are treated nonoperatively. Treatment protocols vary significantly among practitioners, with no consensus on the most efficacious approach. This systematic review aims to identify the effect of treatment protocols on union rate and functional outcome after an acute fifth metatarsal tuberosity fracture.

LITERATURE SURVEY

Multiple databases, including CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and the Cochrane CEntral Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) were searched from database inception to March 4, 2018 to identify clinical studies addressing nonoperative management of metatarsal fractures reporting nonunion, pain, and/or length of recovery.

METHODOLOGY

Two reviewers independently completed title, abstract, and full-text screening. Data abstraction was completed in duplicate. Outcome measures and complications were descriptively analyzed.

SYNTHESIS

A total of 1941 studies were eligible for screening. Seven studies (four randomized controlled trials and three prospective cohort studies) satisfied inclusion criteria. This resulted in a total of 388 patient with acute fifth metatarsal tuberosity fractures in 12 different treatment arms, with the most common treatment including plaster casting (7). The mean age was 42 years (27 to 56 years), and the overall nonunion rate was low (1.1%). Four unique functional scores were reported across all studies, and all showed good to excellent short-term results. The overall qualities of studies were moderate, with particular limitations in randomization and concealment allocation.

CONCLUSION

Most acute fifth metatarsal tuberosity fractures heal well, with good-to-excellent functional outcomes with nonoperative treatment, regardless of technique. We recommend a conservative rehabilitation framework, including 2 to 3 weeks of immobilization in a walking cast, followed by gradual increase in activity and strengthening until clinical union is achieved.

Comparative outcomes of foot cast and short leg cast in pseudo-Jones avulsion fracture: a single blinded randomized controlled trial

Background

Fractures of the metatarsal bones account for 35% of all foot fractures. Conservative management of fractures proximal to the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction of the fifth metatarsal bone (pseudo-Jones) is by protected weight bearing. The methods of protected weight bearing include short-leg casting and splinting (boot cast, Jones's bandage and elastic bandage). However, currently there is no consensus as to which method is the most suitable.

Method

We have conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare outcomes of foot casting (FC) and short leg casting (SLC) to assess pain, function and complication outcomes for the treatment of pseudo-jones metatarsal fractures. This single-center, single blind,randomized controlled trial was conducted between 1 June 2016-1 July 2018 at Police General Hospital, Bangkok, Thailand.

Result

A total of 72 pseudo-jones metatarsal fracture participants were randomly allocated to treatment by foot cast or short leg cast. The primary outcomes were pain VAS, AOFAS and complications measured at 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after receiving the treatment. Seventy-two patients (36 paticipants per group) were enrolled to receive either FC or SLC. The mean VAS measured at baseline, 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 6 weeks and 8 weeks were 7.36, 1.97, 0.58, 0.17 and 0.08 respectively in the FC group; and 6.09, 2.91, 1.23, 0.37 and 0.11 respectively in the SLC group. The mean AOFAS at baseline, 2, 4, 6 and 8 weeks were 33.60, 68.22, 82.72, 91.75 and 98.11 respectively in the FC group; and 32.60, 60.20, 70.20, 92.24 and 99.13 in the SLC group. The estimated mean difference of pain VAS and AOFAS at 2 weeks and 4 weeks were - 0.94 (95% CI: - 1.53, - 0.34), - 0.65 (95%CI: - 1.24, - 0.05), 8.02 (95%CI: 3.74, 12.10) and 12.52 (95%CI: 8.27, 16.78), which were statistically significantly better in the FC groups when compared to the SLC groups. However, there were no statistically significant difference between the two groups at 6 and 8 weeks.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that the application of foot casting can improve pain VAS and AOFAS function at 2 and 4 weeks in the treatment of pseudo-jones metatarsal fractures when compared to short leg casting. However, at 6 and 8 weeks, there were no statistically significantly different between the two groups.

Comparative Outcomes of Cast and Removable Support in Fracture Fifth Metatarsal Bone: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Fractures of the metatarsals account for 35% of all foot fractures. Conservative management of fractures proximal to the metaphyseal-diaphyseal junction of the fifth metatarsal bone (pseudo-Jones) is protected weightbearing. The methods of protected weightbearing include a short-leg cast and splint (boot cast, Jones bandage, and elastic bandage). However, no consensus has yet been reached regarding which method is most suitable. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the outcomes of a short-leg cast and splint for pseudo-Jones metatarsal fractures. We searched the PubMed and Scopus databases up to October 29, 2016. Five of 104 studies (3 comparative studies and 2 randomized controlled trials; n = 246 patients) were eligible. Of the studies, 3, 5, and 4 were included in pooling of early (within 1 month) and last follow-up foot function scale scores and fracture nonunion, respectively. The unstandardized mean difference of early (within 1 month) and last follow-up foot scores for the short leg cast were -14.58 (95% confidence interval [CI] -24.12 to -5.04) and -3.89 (95% CI -6.30 to -1.49), significantly lower than the scores for the splint (bandage or boot support) for pseudo-Jones fracture of the fifth metatarsal bone. The risk of nonunion of the fifth metatarsal bone fracture of the patients who were treated with short leg cast method was insignificantly greater at 1.57 times (95% CI 0.29 to 8.49) that compared with the splint. The treatment of fracture of the pseudo-Jones fifth metatarsal bone with a splint (boot or bandage) resulted in foot function scale scores better than those with short leg cast treatment and a lower nonunion rate.

Comparative study of surgical and conservative treatments for fifth metatarsal base avulsion fractures (type I) in young adults or athletes

PURPOSE

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects and complications of minimally invasive surgery in treating displaced avulsion fractures (2-3 mm) of fifth metatarsal base zone I in young adults or athletes.

METHODS

Forty-six patients with displaced fifth metatarsal base avulsion fractures were assigned to operative and nonoperative groups by randomization. Patients in nonoperative group were immobilized with plaster, while patients in operative group were treated with closed reduction and fixation with a percutaneous screw.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for 14 months on average (ranging from 12 to 24 months). All cases got primary union except for three patients in nonoperative group with malunion and two with frequent mild to moderate plantar pain. The American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score was significantly better in operative group at 6 months after treatment ( p < 0.05) but not significantly different at 12 months after treatment ( p > 0.05). The average time of full weight bearing and returning to work was significantly shorter in operative group than nonoperative group ( p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In young adults or athletes with displaced avulsion fractures of fifth metatarsal base zone I, closed reduction and percutaneous screw fixation provides anatomical stable fixation and early mobilization.

[Fractures of the base of the V metatarsal bone-current concepts revised]

Fractures of the base of the fifth metatarsal bone are one of the most frequent fractures to the foot and ankle. Despite the high frequency and although a number of studies are now available, treatment frequently does not follow the available evidence. Among the reasons is the inconsistent terminology used and that the studies available are neglected. The aim of this review is to present the current classifications, the available treatment studies and to derive evidence-based treatment recommendations. The term "Jones fracture" has been used inconsistently for different fracture entities and should, therefore, not be used anymore. Fractures are mostly classified according to Lawrence and Botte into three zones. However, the available studies demonstrate that type I and type II fractures according to Lawrence and Botte do not differ with respect to the prognosis. Both fractures can be successfully healed by functional treatment with weightbearing as tolerated. Consequently, a differentiation between these two zones does not seem to be meaningful. Therefore, they should be summarized as epi-metaphyseal fractures. Even dislocated, intra-articular, and multifragmentary fractures in this region can be functionally treated with good results. Fractures in the meta-diaphyseal region (Lawrence and Botte type III, distal to the IV and V intermetatarsal articulation) demonstrate a high rate of symptomatic non-unions after conservative treatment. Therefore, these fractures should be primarily treated operatively by closed reduction and intramedullary screw fixation.

Early radiographic and clinical outcomes of minimally displaced proximal fifth metatarsal fractures: cast vs functional bandage

Background

The purpose of this non-randomized retrospective study was to investigate outcomes of minimally displaced, proximal 5MTB fractures, treated by a below-knee walking cast or a functional elasticated bandage with a support of a flat hard-soled shoe.

Methods

A consecutive patient series was divided into two groups: the cast group (CG) and the functional group (FG). The subjects were radiologically and clinically evaluated according to Mehlhorn and Lawrence-Botte classification, and AOFAS Midfoot score, respectively.

Results

154 patients were followed up for a median of 15 months (range 12-24). There was no significant difference (p > 0.05) among the outcomes of each fracture pattern regarding the treatment choice. However, an earlier return to sports was noted in the FG, while Type-3 fractures achieved the worst results.

Conclusion

Type-1 and 2 minimally displaced 5MTB proximal fractures can be successfully treated conservatively without weight-bearing restriction and without benefit of a cast with respect to a functional elasticated bandage.

Level of clinical evidence

level III retrospective comparative study.

Functional treatment for fractures to the base of the 5th metatarsal - influence of fracture location and fracture characteristics

Background

Fractures to the base of the fifth metatarsal are common, but their treatment remains controversial. Especially for Lawrence and Botte (L&B) type II fractures, there is conflicting evidence and consequently no consensus. Further, many authors consider displacement, articular involvement, and number of fragments an indication for surgery, although evidence is missing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the outcome of functional treatment for all L&B type I and II fractures. Of special interest were the influence of (1) the fracture location (L&B type I vs. II) and (2) the fracture characteristics (displacement, intra-articular involvement, communition) on the subjective outcome.

Methods

Retrospective registry study with a prospective follow-up. Patients with an acute, isolated, epi-metaphyseal fracture to the fifth metatarsal bone (L&B type I and II) treated by full weightbearing with a minimum follow-up of 6 months were included. Fracture location (L&B type I and II) and characteristics (displacement <2 mm or >2 mm, intra-articular involvement, and number of fragments) were assessed. Outcome parameters were return to work, return to sports, VAS-FA, and SF-12. The influence of the fracture (1) location and (2) -characteristics on these parameters was tested.

Results

Thirty-nine patients (40 ± 15 years, 56% female) were enrolled with a mean follow-up of 22 ± 10 months. L&B type I fractures occurred in 59%, type II in 41%. Thirty-one percent of all fractures were dislocated, 74% intra-articular, and 41% multi-fragmentary. Patients returned to work after 17 ± 12 days, to sports after 53 ± 22 days. The VAS-FA score at the final follow-up was 96 ± 4, SF-12 PCS score 57 ± 5 and MCS score 51 ± 8. No complications were reported, no patient required surgery. None of the assessed outcome parameters differed significantly between (1) the different fracture locations (L&B type I vs. II) or (2) the different fracture characteristics (displacement, intra-articular involvement, and number of fragments).

Conclusions

(1) Both, L&B I and II fractures featured excellent results with immediate full weightbearing. Consequently, L&B type I and II fractures should be summarized as epi-metaphyseal fractures. (2) Fracture displacement, articular involvement, and number of fragments did not influence the outcome. Therefore, functional treatment should be recommended for all epi-metaphyseal fractures.