The role of internal fixation in the treatment of Jones fractures in diabetics.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the treatment of fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal at the junction of the metaphysis and diaphysis (i.e., Jones fracture) in diabetics. Open reduction and internal fixation with bone grafting resulted in clinical and radiographic union 8 weeks after surgery in patients treated with either immediate or delayed open reduction and internal fixation. Open reduction and internal fixation with autologous bone grafting is an effective treatment regimen in the diabetic patient with a Jones fracture. An initial trial of casting can be attempted without any apparent deleterious effects on secondary open reduction and internal fixation.