Abrollende vakuumstützorthese versus vorfußentlastungsschuh zur behandlung von metatarsalefrakturen: Eine prospektive, randomisierte untersuchung

Background: Metatarsal fractures are managed using different types of forefoot offloading orthosis. The aim of this prospective study was to evaluate the clinical and pedographic results of a vacuum shoe system in comparison to a forefoot unloading shoe. Method: 20 patients (14 women/6 men - age: 36.4 ± 14.1 years) were prospectively included in the study. The patients were followed up at four different time points. Detailed clinical and radiological examinations were carried out, functional scores were measured and a pedographic assessment was performed. Results: Between the study groups no differences were seen in functional scoring. A complete bony healing was achieved within the 3 months of follow-up in all patients. The heelstrike to heelstrike time was without significant differences in the pedographic analysis. Adequate forefoot unloading was achieved with both orthosis. The load sharing between fore-, mid- and hindfoot showed no significant differences in the pedographic analysis. Patients’ satisfaction was rated with higher values for the vacuum shoe system, but without significance. Conclusion: Both shoe systems show an adequate unloading of the forefoot. Therefore both orthosis may be used for the treatment of metatarsal fractures.