The use of external fixation for treatment of the acute Jones fracture: a retrospective review of 10 cases.

The purpose of this retrospective clinical study was to evaluate the clinical outcome of patients who underwent external fixation of acute Jones fractures. There were 10 patients with a mean age of 25.2 years; 9 of the patients were actively involved in athletics. Chart and radiograph review showed the mean clinical and radiographic healing times to be 5.7 and 6.5 weeks, respectively. Patients returned to preinjury activity levels at a mean 9 weeks postoperatively. Complications included 1 case each of localized cellulitis, asymptomatic nonunion, and refracture. Telephone inquiry performed at a mean 46 months postoperatively determined all patients to be pain-free and continuing to participate at their preinjury activity levels. External fixation is quick and easy to perform and provides a viable alternative to intramedullary screw fixation of Jones fractures in the young, active patient.