Rishabh Pant severely hurts foot, metatarsal fracture suspected: Does it need surgery?

Indian Test wicket-keeper-batter Rishabh Pant, who has battled several injuries in his career, had to retire hurt after another scare that potentially could see him sitting out for the entirety of the match, if not the series against England.
While attempting a reverse sweep in the Manchester Test off Chris Woakes' yorker, he inside-edged the shot onto his right foot. When he took off his shoe, the foot looked bruised and swollen, and Pant was also visibly in pain. Former India coach Ravi Shastri, who worked closely with Pant, said the injury looked serious, given the way the southpaw flinched as soon as the shoes were removed.

According to many, the injury appears quite serious, and a metatarsal fracture or injury is suspected, given the immediate swelling. "I have had metatarsal injury myself. They are small, fragile bones," said Ricky Ponting, former Australian captain who has worked with Pant in the IPL team Delhi Capitals. While doctors are yet to give a final assessment on his injury, here's what we know about metatarsal fractures. 

What is a metatarsal fracture?
The five long bones that connect the middle part of our foot to the toes are called metatarsals. They can quickly break during accidents, if they are hit by heavy objects, or even from activities like running. Depending on where the injury happened, the treatment differs.
Generally, if you encounter such an injury, doctors prescribe crutches, pain medication, and recommend keeping the foot elevated, according to the US-based Orthopaedic Trauma Association (OTA), a collective of orthopaedic surgeons, researchers, and healthcare professionals. You will also have to use ice to help with the pain and swelling. 

Is surgery needed?
Many broken metatarsals can heal without surgery, according to OTA. Doctors might prescribe a cast, special shoes or boots for the patient and also specify how much weight can be put on the person's foot. The bone should heal in about 12 weeks. However, if an injury results in a bone sticking out through the skin, it will require a metatarsal surgery to realign the bones and hold them in the correct position.
Jones fracture, typically seen in athletes and those who are highly active, is a metatarsal fracture that often requires surgery. In such a case, a person will have to stay off foot for up to eight weeks. Regardless, most metatarsal fractures generally heal very well with good care and treatment. 
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