Surgical Excision of Symptomatic Nonunion of Fifth Metatarsal Base Avulsion Fracture in Athletes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical results of surgical excision of symptomatic nonunion of fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture in athletes. From February 2008 to December 2009, six athletic patients who had a symptomatic nonunion of fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture underwent surgical excision of ununited bony fragment and they were followed for more than 12 months. The mean age was 18.5 years and the mean follow-up period was 13 months. The clinical results were evaluated using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot scoring system and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) scoring system and statistically analyzed (SPSS ver. 18.0). The AOFAS and VAS score was improved in all patients. The mean AOFAS forefoot score was improved from 58.6±5.7 preoperatively to 95±5.4 postoperatively, which indicated significant difference (p=0.024). The mean preoperative VAS score was 8.0±0.6 and the mean postoperative VAS score was 1.6±0.5 cm, which indicated significant difference (p=0.023). There were no postoperative problems and functional loss on the operation lesions. The surgical excision of symptomatic nonunion of fifth metatarsal base avulsion fracture in athletes was found to be one of the ideal treatment option for early return to full activity and relief of pain.