What Are Complications of Fractures?

Discussion Fifth metatarsal fractures are a common fracture of the foot and are the most common metatarsal fracture in children > 5 years of age and adults. There is a peak age distribution in the second and fifth decades of life. Teenage boys in organized sports are one of the most common groups affected. In acute fractures, acute pain and inability to walk are common presentations, whereas in a stress fracture an increase in activity, or chronic repetitive forces are at play. Fifth metatarsal fractures have various classifications. Fracture locations from proximal to distal include avulsion fractures (a common acute fracture because of torque forces in the proximal diaphysis), Jones fracture, metaphyseal fractures (common location for stress fractures) and neck and head fractures. The Jones fracture is a specific type of 5th metatarsal fracture first described in 1902 by Sir Robert Jones. He described it in his own foot after dancing and in 4 other patients. It occurs at the diaphyseal-metaphyseal interface which has a watershed blood supply and therefore is prone to delayed or non-union fractures. Treatment for 5th metatarsal fractures varies and includes non-operative management such as wraps, casts, boots, hard soled shoes with or without weight bearing and also electromagnetic field treatment or ultrasound. Operative management is usually by screw fixation, but also by tension band wiring and/or bone grafts. The prognosis is good overall for these fractures. Dependi...
Source: PediatricEducation.org - Category: Pediatrics Authors: Tags: Uncategorized Source Type: news