Fifth Metatarsal Base Fracture

We have reviewed 75 cases of fifth metatarsal base fracture treated both surgicaly and conservatively since 1973. 22 of 75 cases were operated by “Zuggurtung” osteosynthesis. It was fixed by two C-wires and figure of eight circumferential wires. Postoperatively at one week the patient was permitted to walk without any support. On the other hand, 53 of 75 cases were treated conservatively. Immobilization such as plaster cast, plaster splint, foot plate apparatus or elastic bandage continued from two to ten weeks, depending upon the duration of pain.Results of the surgery revealed no pain and good union of the fracture in all cases. The patients could go back working again within two weeks postoperatively. Very satisfactory results were gained. While as for the result of the conservative treatment, non-union occurred in two cases accompanied with pain. We stress that in treatment of fifth metatarsal base fracture surgery is recommendable to patients who want to go back to work as early as possible.