Fifth metatarsal base fractures: A simple classification

MethodsA proposed classification for fifth metatarsal fractures based on review of 160 fractures was developed and validated. A prospective study of all patients with newly diagnosed fifth metatarsal base fractures was performed with each fracture classified using the new simple classification. Treatment for each fracture was determined by a standard protocol. The clinical and functional outcome between the new fracture types was compared using the AOFAS score.ResultsOf 189 patients 154 patients were recruited for the study. The majority of fractures were classified as Types I and II. Three patients required surgical fixation. By 3 months the average AOFAS score for each of the fracture types were greater than 80. Satisfactory outcomes were achieved for all patients with no difference between the fracture types.ConclusionsThe proposed new classification and treatment protocol enables fractures of the fifth metatarsal to be classified easily and treated appropriately.