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Transarterial Microembolization in Refractory Plantar Fasciitis: Functional and Patient-Reported Early- to Midterm
Hüseyin Saygin Tuna1, Benjamin Reichardt2, Fahrettin Kucukay3
1Department of Radiology, HELIOS University Hospital Wuppertal, University of Witten/Herdecke, Heusnerstr. 40, 42283 Wuppertal, Germany.
Diagnostics (Basel, Switzerland)
|July 28, 2026
Summary
Transarterial microembolization offers a promising minimally invasive treatment for chronic plantar fasciitis, significantly reducing pain and improving function. This approach demonstrates rapid, sustained relief and a favorable safety profile for refractory cases.
Area of Science:
- Interventional Radiology
- Musculoskeletal Medicine
- Vascular Interventions
Background:
- Chronic plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative treatment presents a significant therapeutic challenge.
- Minimally invasive treatments targeting neovascularization are gaining interest.
- Evaluating novel approaches for persistent plantar fasciitis is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety and clinical outcomes of transarterial microembolization for refractory plantar fasciitis.
- To emphasize functional and patient-reported outcomes in treated patients.
- To explore a minimally invasive option for chronic plantar fasciitis.
Main Methods:
- Single-center observational pilot study with ambispective data collection.
- 16 procedures in 13 patients undergoing transarterial microembolization.
- Primary outcome: pain intensity (Numeric Rating Scale); secondary outcomes: Foot Function Index, Patient Global Impression of Change, analgesic use, return to activity, complications.
Main Results:
- 100% technical success with significant pain reduction (NRS 10 to 0 within 3 months, sustained to 18 months).
- Marked improvement in Foot Function Index and reduced analgesic use.
- 90.9% clinical improvement at 12 months, 68.8% return to normal activity, minor complications only.
Conclusions:
- Transarterial microembolization shows rapid functional and patient-reported improvement in refractory plantar fasciitis.
- The procedure exhibits a favorable safety profile with minimal complications.
- Further validation in controlled prospective studies is warranted for these hypothesis-generating findings.