The epidemiology of metatarsal fractures.

BACKGROUND

Metatarsal fractures are common injuries; however little has been written regarding their epidemiology in an adult population.

METHODS

All patients with metatarsal fractures during a 1-year time period were included in the study. Demographic information, grade, and mechanism of injury, associated injuries, and fracture location and type were recorded.

RESULTS

Three hundred and fifty-five patients with 411 metatarsal fractures were identified. The average age of the patients was 42 years. There was a higher proportion of women in the higher age groups, and the most common fracture was that of the fifth metatarsal. Multiple metatarsal fractures occurred in contiguous metatarsals, and 63% of third metatarsal fractures were associated with a fracture of either the second or fourth metatarsal.

CONCLUSION

Knowledge of the epidemiology and injury patterns of metatarsal fractures can aid in the accurate identification and subsequent treatment of fractures of the metatarsals.