Operative Results of Plantar Plating for Fifth Metatarsal Stress Fracture

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The treatment of fifth metatarsal stress fractures can be challenging. Various operative fixation methods have been reported for fracture management. Among them, intramedullary screw fixation has become increasingly popular. However, recent reports have described failures after screw fixation in athletes. The aim of this study was to determine the rates of clinical and radiographic healing, time to return to sport, and complications of elite athletes with proximal fifth metatarsal fractures treated with plantar plating. METHODS: Thirty-eight athletes with fifth metatarsal stress fractures treated using a plantar plating technique in 3 hospitals from 2013 to 2018 were evaluated retrospectively. Demographic data, radiographic evaluation, and the time until union and return to sports activities were collected and analyzed. A total of 38 patients underwent the plantar plating for a fifth metatarsal stress fracture with a mean follow-up of 23 (range, 12-49) months. RESULTS: The mean time to the radiologic union, as determined by plain radiography, was 9.3 (range, 8-16) weeks. Although there were no nonunions or delayed unions during follow-up, 4 refractures developed (10.5%). All but 1 patient were able to return to their previous levels of sporting activity at 22.2 +/- 4.5 (range, 12-40) weeks. CONCLUSION: With a minimum of 1-year follow-up, the described plantar plating technique could be an alternative method for the operative treatment of fifth metatarsal stress fractures without nonunion problems. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level IV, case series.