Neuroma under the fifth metatarsal head. A retrospective study

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Podiatric Medicine
• Foot and Ankle Studies

Background:

• Tailor's bunion and fifth metatarsal overload are common foot pathologies.
• These conditions can lead to pain and functional limitations.
• The presence of neuromas in this region is not fully understood in relation to these pathologies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between fifth metatarsal pathologies and the incidence of neuromas.
• To analyze the prevalence of neuromas in patients undergoing surgery for tailor's bunion and/or fifth metatarsal overload.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 83 surgical cases involving the distal fifth metatarsal.
• Surgical indications included tailor's bunion, fifth metatarsal overload, or both.
• Intraoperative identification and documentation of neuromas under the fifth metatarsal head.

Main Results:

• Neuromas were identified in 18 out of 83 cases (21.7%).
• A significant association was found between the presence of neuromas and fifth metatarsal overload.
• The association was particularly pronounced when fifth metatarsal overload was combined with tailor's bunion.

Conclusions:

• Fifth metatarsal overload is a significant risk factor for developing neuromas in this anatomical area.
• Concurrent tailor's bunion pathology may further increase the likelihood of neuroma formation.
• These findings highlight the importance of considering neuroma development in patients with these specific foot conditions.