Jones Fracture Management in Athletes

Abstract

Jones fractures in both elite and recreational athletes are best treated with surgical fixation, given superior results as compared to nonoperative management. While screw specifics remain controversial, intramedullary screw fixation is established as the standard surgical technique. Plate fixation also has shown excellent outcomes. Complications of refracture, nonunion, and delayed union require careful evaluation for contributions of early return to play, implant characteristics, and anatomic/metabolic abnormality. Revision fixation with autograft and biologic augmentation is supported in the literature, with ongoing inquiry to optimizing specific implants and adjuvants.

Keywords: Athletes; Fifth metatarsal fracture; Intramedullary screw; Jones fracture.