Interdigital Commissural Approach for Morton's Neuroma

Morton's neuroma is a frequent cause of metatarsalgia. Operative treatment is indicated if nonoperative management has failed. The objective of the present study was to describe a technique of Morton's neuroma excision by a minimally invasive commissural approach and evaluate the long-term outcome and complications.

A retrospective study of 108 patients with Morton's neuroma treated surgically with a commissural approach between September 1990 and December 2010 was performed. The surgical technique is described. Clinical outcomes and complications were evaluated. The average follow-up was 121 months. Eleven patients were men and 97 women. The average age was 49.4 years; 56.8% neuromas were at the third space and 43.2% at the second space. Six patients presented 2 neuromas in the same foot, and 9 patients had bilateral neuroma.

The visual analog scale (VAS) average pain score was 5.4 points preoperatively and 0.2 points at the final follow-up. The author found a significant difference between the VAS scores preoperatively and postoperatively (P < .01). Excellent and good satisfaction outcomes were achieved in 93.6%. The postoperative complication incidence was 3%.

The author believes a minimally invasive commissural approach has advantages over a dorsal or plantar incision. It is a simple and reproducible technique, with satisfactory outcomes, low complication rates, and a quick return to usual activities.

Level IV, retrospective case series.