Nonoperative treatment of fifth metatarsal fractures in an orthopaedic suburban private multispeciality practice.
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this study was to review consecutive fifth metatarsal fractures in the author's (KFK) practice from August, 1999, to November, 2003.


METHODS
During this period 64 patients (66 fractures; 35 tuberosity fractures, 10 Jones fractures, three stress fractures, two segmental shaft fractures and 16 oblique distal shaft/neck fractures) were treated nonoperatively. Initial treatment was started from the day of injury to as long as 8 weeks after injury. All patients were treated ambulatory with immediate weightbearing.


RESULTS
The time to bony union averaged 3.7 months. The union rate was 98.5% with a satisfaction rate of 100%.


CONCLUSIONS
By using closed treatment techniques bony union was predictable with minimal cost and a high satisfaction rate. We recommend nonoperative treatment of fifth metatarsal fractures for patients in whom the time to return to full activities is not critical.
Konkel
Kurt F
KF
Advanced Healthcare, Inc., Orthopaedics, N84W16889 Menomonee Ave., Menomonee Falls, WI 53051, USA. kkonke@ah.com
Menger
Andrea G
AG
Retzlaff
Sharon A
SA
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D050723:Fractures, Bone / Q000628:therapy*; D006123:Group Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008511:Medicine; D008682:Metatarsal Bones / Q000293:injuries*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009985:Orthopedics; D011331:Private Practice; D013038:Specialization; D013383:Suburban Population; D013997:Time Factors; D016896:Treatment Outcome