Fifth metatarsal fractures in skeletally immature patients do not need routine orthopedic surgeon assessment and follow-up.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the rate of delayed or nonunion of fifth metatarsal fractures in skeletally immature patients. Using this information, we sought to develop an evidence-based clinical care pathway in order to mitigate unnecessary patient radiation exposure, costs to families, and costs to the health system.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the charts and radiographs of patients who presented to an academic tertiary-care paediatric hospital between 2009 and 2014 with isolated fifth metatarsal fractures.

Results

A total of 114 patients (61 males and 53 females) with mean age of 11.2 (SD 3.0) years old were included in the study. No patients required operative management. There was one case of delayed union and no cases of nonunion. Th

SUBMITTER: Meschino D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8522813 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature