Operative Treatment of Stress Fractures of the Metatarsals

A common presenting complaint in athletes and nonathletes alike, metatarsal stress fractures may be a source of persistent pain and loss of lower limb use, resulting in loss of recreational and vocational performance. Although most fractures respond to traditional conservative treatments, some may require more aggressive intervention on the part of the treating orthopaedic surgeon. The identification of these particular problem fractures and the search for associated conditions is important for the optimal outcome of these injuries. Attention to surgical technique is important; the options for adjunctive procedures are presented.