Publication:

Functional outcome of intramedullary screw fixation of fifth metatarsal Jones fracture

Background Management of fractures of the base of 5th metatarsal has long been a topic of debate, particularly regarding the effectiveness of operative and non-operative treatment approaches. This study aimed to evaluate the outcomes of internal fixation using an intramedullary screw in management of Jones fracture.

Methods Twenty-one patients diagnosed with Jones fracture were surgically fixed with intramedullary screw and were evaluated on the basis of union time and the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society score at 6 weeks and 12 weeks.

Results Overall union time of the study patients was 6.76 weeks (SD=0.768). There was a non-significant relationship between age and union time (r=0.146, p=0.528) in the patients. The overall mean AOFAS score at 6 weeks increased from 87.43±5.005 to overall mean score 94.09±2.364 at 12 weeks after treatment. There was a significant negative correlation between age and AOFAS at 6-weeks (r=-0.673, p<0.001) and at 12-weeks (r=-0.542, p=0.011) post treatment.

Conclusions The treatment with surgical screw fixation is safe and effective method for treatment of acute Jones fracture and can be strongly recommended in those who want to return to normal activity earlier.