2015 ISAKOS Biennial Congress ePoster #116

Early Functional Treatment of 5th Metatarsal Fractures in the Young Active Individuals

Said M.Nader, MD, Doha QATAR
Saleh Al Yazidi, MD, Doha QATAR
M. Alaa Kawas, MD, Doha QATAR
Maamoun Samhadaneh, MD, Doha QATAR
Hasan Abu Hejleh, MD, Doha QATAR
Alaa Zaqout, MD, Doha QATAR
Fuad Mazhar, MD, Doha QATAR
Alaa El Din Daher, MD, Doha QATAR
Bashar Mashal, MD, Doha QATAR
Vache Hambardzymian, MD, Doha UNITED STATES
Hamad General Hospital, Doha, QATAR

FDA Status Not Applicable

Summary: In 45 patients early functional treatment was found a valid favored option for 5th MT fractures in the young active individuals. Findings suggest that union might be stimulated with this treatment.

Abstract:

Introduction

5th metatarsal fractures are common among young active and athletes. Treatment is controversial with frequently reported complications and prolonged absence from work and sports. The aim of the study is to investigate early functional treatment in the young active individuals.

Methods

and materials:
A prospective study conducted in Hamad General Hospital in Qatar. The study started 2010 and still undergoing. Selected for this presentation are patients who chose to walk without support from the first few days and to return early to their heavy labor work. They were young active workers presenting to the team with isolated closed acute fractures of the 5th metatarsal bone (5thMT). Student’s t and chi square tests were used. The outcome is outlined.

Results

40 patients included until June 2013. Average age was 27 (18 to 45). They all are workers in construction and industry. They presented to the investigating team with isolated closed 5th MT fracture up to 10 days after injury. In thirty five patients the fractures were located in the proximal half of the bone. Five were neck and distal shaft fractures. Because of their living conditions they chose to ambulate weight bearing without support from the first few days after injury. All except two preferred to remove the plaster cast on the first visit to the investigator team as they were given the option. For financial advantage they returned to work as pain allowed after a mean of 12 days (3 to 30). Follow up average 6 months (3-12). Al fractures united within 10-16 weeks except one small tip avulsion which united clinically but not radiologically. Mild residual pain reported in two patients in the Lisfranc area not preventing them from sports or labor work activities. All patients returned to same level of work and sports activities. No complications were reported.

Conclusion

Early functional treatment was found a valid favored option for 5th MT fractures in the young active individuals. Findings suggest that union might be stimulated with this treatment.