Fractures and dislocations in the foot

Fractures and dislocations in the foot are rarely life-threatening; however they can significantly compromise quality of life. Fractures of the toes are generally treated conservatively; dislocated fractures of the distal phalanx require careful treatment in order to avoid nail deformities. The peripheral rays should be treated by open reduction and internal fixation if dislocated. Serial fractures of the central rays generally require fixation. Proximal fractures of the 5th metatarsal must be accurately classified in order to apply the correct treatment concept. Fractures of the 5th metatarsal should be treated operatively in active athletes. Non-unions and stress fractures of the 5th metatarsal are not uncommon and should often be treated operatively. Rupture of the plantar plate of the metatarsophalangeal joint represents a specific entity of dislocations in the foot and requires operative treatment.