PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical results of modified tension band wiring using two cortical screws for the treatment of fifth metatarsal stress fractures. METHODS: Forty-two patients with Torg's type I and II fifth metatarsal stress fractures treated using the modified tension band wiring technique from 2005 to 2008 were evaluated retrospectively. All of the patients were elite athletes. RESULTS: The mean length of follow-up was 26 ± 16 months (12-62 months). All patients were able to return to their previous levels of sporting activity. The mean time to union as determined by CT was 75 ± 25 days (40-150 days). However, during follow-up, there were 4 delayed unions, 1 nonunion, and 4 refractures. CONCLUSION: The described modified tension band wiring technique is a good alternative method for the surgical treatment of Torg's type I and II fifth metatarsal stress fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series with no comparison group, retrospective case series, Level IV.
PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the surgical results of modified tension band wiring using two cortical screws for the treatment of fifth metatarsal stress fractures. METHODS: Forty-two patients with Torg's type I and II fifth metatarsal stress fractures treated using the modified tension band wiring technique from 2005 to 2008 were evaluated retrospectively. All of the patients were elite athletes. RESULTS: The mean length of follow-up was 26 ± 16 months (12-62 months). All patients were able to return to their previous levels of sporting activity. The mean time to union as determined by CT was 75 ± 25 days (40-150 days). However, during follow-up, there were 4 delayed unions, 1 nonunion, and 4 refractures. CONCLUSION: The described modified tension band wiring technique is a good alternative method for the surgical treatment of Torg's type I and II fifth metatarsal stress fractures. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Case series with no comparison group, retrospective case series, Level IV.