# Percutaneous Intramedullary Application of Stem Cells for Fifth Metatarsal Fractures Treated With a Cannulated Screw

## TL;DR

A new percutaneous technique is introduced to apply stem cells at the fracture site to improve healing in fifth metatarsal fractures treated with a cannulated screw.

## Contribution

A novel percutaneous method is presented for accessing both endosteum and periosteum during intramedullary fixation of fifth metatarsal fractures.

## Key findings

- Stem cell application is proposed to enhance biological healing in fifth metatarsal fractures.
- A percutaneous technique is described for accessing both endosteum and periosteum under local anesthesia.
- The method is used in conjunction with cannulated screw intramedullary fixation.

## Abstract

Non-union and refracture of fifth metatarsal fractures are common and devastating complications in the athletic population. Stem cell application at the fracture site, for biologic enhancement, is utilized to address this challenge. We present a simple technique to approach both the endosteum and the periosteum percutaneously, under a local anesthetic, in cases of cannulated screw intramedullary fixation.