Name of the Procedure:

Closed Treatment of Metatarsal Fracture; Without Manipulation, Each

Summary

The closed treatment of a metatarsal fracture without manipulation is a non-surgical procedure where a broken metatarsal bone in the foot is treated without the need for realignment of the bone.

Purpose

This procedure addresses fractures of the metatarsal bones in the foot. The goals are to immobilize the affected bone, promote natural healing, and alleviate pain and discomfort.

Indications

• Acute pain and swelling in the foot after trauma.
• Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the foot.
• Confirmed metatarsal fracture through imaging tests like X-rays.
• Patients who do not require surgical intervention for their fracture.

Preparation

• Typically, no special preparation is required.
• Patients may be advised to avoid eating or drinking if sedation is involved.
• A physical examination and imaging studies like X-rays to confirm the fracture.

Procedure Description

1. The patient is seated or lying down with the affected foot elevated.
2. A splint or cast is applied to immobilize the foot and ensure stability of the fractured bone.
3. No manipulation (realignment) of the bone is done, as the fracture is either non-displaced or minimally displaced.
4. The cast or splint may include padding for comfort and to prevent swelling.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in an outpatient clinic or emergency room.

Personnel

• Orthopedic surgeon or physician
• Medical assistant or nurse
• Radiology technician (if imaging is required during the procedure)

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reaction to casting materials
• Skin irritation or pressure sores under the cast
• Blood clots due to immobilization
• Delayed or non-union of the fracture requiring further intervention

Benefits

• Pain relief and stabilization of the fracture
• Facilitates natural healing of the bone
• Avoids the risks associated with surgical procedures
• Typically allows for a quicker return to normal activities

Recovery

• Patients are instructed to keep the foot elevated and to avoid bearing weight on it.
• Crutches or a walking boot may be provided.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing through X-rays.
• Full recovery and cast removal may take several weeks to a few months, depending on the severity of the fracture.

Alternatives

• Surgical intervention: For more complex fractures, surgery might be needed to realign and stabilize the bone with pins, screws, or plates.
• Manipulative reduction: If the bone pieces are misaligned, a closed reduction with manipulation might be required.
• Orthopedic walking boots: For less severe fractures, a walking boot might be used instead of a cast.

Patient Experience

• Patients might feel some initial discomfort or itching under the cast.
• Pain is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• There may be some restriction in mobility, so assistance with daily activities might be necessary.
• Adherence to follow-up care and instructions is essential for optimal recovery.