Variable Angle Locking Compression Plate as Alternative Fixation for Jones Fractures:

A Case Series

Abstract

Introduction. Jones fractures pose many challenges for the treating
surgeon and can cause significant disability for some patients. The
aim of this study was to review the results of using a variable angle
locking compression plate as an alternative fixation method in the
treatment of Jones fractures.
Methods.xA retrospective chart review was conducted of patients
who had undergone fixation of Jones fracture with a variable angle
locking compression plate from September 2012 through February
2016. Radiographs of the preoperative and six-week postoperative
and postoperative follow-up outcomes, including complication and
hardware removal, were collected.
Results. Twenty-three cases met the inclusion/exclusion criteria.
The overall bony union rate was 96% at six-week postoperative and
100% at 20-week postoperative. Mean age was 30 ± 16 years, and
mean BMI was 30.7 ± 5.2 kg/m2. Three patients (13%) had plate
removal: two (9%) were due to irritation caused by shoe wearing and
one patient (4%) had a skin infection (cellulitis) which was treated
with intravenous antibiotics. One patient (4%) had developed deep
vein thrombosis (DVT) that was resolved with anticoagulant without
implant removal. No fixation loss and no associated complications
developed from implant removal.
Conclusions. Based on our limited experience, this study provided
evidence that the variable angle locking compression plate may be an
alternative form of fixation for Jones fractures with a low complication
rate. This procedure seemed to provide a safe, reliable method
that can achieve an anatomic reduction, stable fixation, rapid healing,
and good results in the treatment of Jones fractures.
Kans J Med 2019;12(2):28-32.