ABSTRACT

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate patients following Morton’s neuroma excision using a dorsal approach.

From January 2007 to December 2013, 23 feet of 21 patients underwent surgical excision of interdigital neuroma using a dorsal approach. Patients were evaluated at a mean of 43.4 months (range, 18–93 months) and asked for pain, activity limitations, footwear modifications, walking distance, numbness, and overall satisfaction with results of the surgery. American Orthopedic Foot Ankle Society (AOFAS) Lesser Metatarsophalangeal– Interphalangeal Scale and Gianni interdigital neuroma clinical evaluation score were assessed.

None of the patients had surgical complications, and none of them required revision surgeries. The average AOFAS score was 93.7 (SD, 7.63; range, 78–100), and the neuroma score was 68.2 (SD, 7.78; range, 50–80). Excellent results were reported for 18 feet (78%), good results for 3 feet (13%), and fair results for 2 feet (9%). Minor pain, not impairing patients’ daily life, was reported for 8 feet (35%), and 5 patients preferred using comfortable shoes following the surgery. Numbness was assessed in 14 feet (60%). All of the patients were completely satisfied with the surgery and expressed that they can recommend the procedure to others.

Surgical excision of Morton’s neuroma results in excellent and good outcome in majority of the patients for mid-long term follow-up. Minor pain and numbness do not affect patients’ overall satisfaction and do not impair their daily life. Interdigital neuroma excision using a dorsal approach is a satisfactory treatment method for patients and surgeons. (JAREM 2016; 6: 45-8)

Keywords: Morton’s neuroma, interdigital neuroma, metatarsalgia, excision, neurectomy