Intramedullary decompression with condylectomy for intractable plantar keratoma

A previously unreported method to relieve excessive plantargrade pressure which may create an intractable plantar keratoma associated with metatarsal head pain is presented. This method is referred to as an intramedullary metatarsal decompression with condylectomy and is performed through a dorsal minimum incision. The rotary action of the bur is demonstrated. This method has proved less traumatic than previous procedures, permitting immediate ambulation with little postoperative pain or edema. In a series of cases, I have compared this method with control studies on the same patient in which intramedullary metatarsal decompression was performed on one foot and a neck osteotomy on the opposite foot. Results with intramedullary metatarsal decompression have been comparable but have fewer postoperative sequelae. Exuberant bone callus formation dorsally and at the osteotomy site, lateral displacement of bone segments, frequency of transfer lesions, delayed healing or nonunion of the osteotomy site, and the possibility of synostosis when two adjacent bones were osteotomized are all decreased. A short review of the rationale, selection of cases, and criteria for orthotics is presented. The concept and simplified method of treatment applied in a series of cases is described.