The outcome of Morton's neurectomy in the treatment of metatarsalgia

Int Orthop. 2010 Apr;34(4):511-5. doi: 10.1007/s00264-009-0812-3. Epub 2009 May 30.

Abstract

Morton's neuroma is a common cause of metatarsalgia caused by intermetarsal digital nerve thickening. This study reviews the pathology, presentation, symptoms and signs, and patient satisfaction with surgical treatment. Seventy-eight patients (82 feet) were treated for Morton's metatarsalgia by excision of the interdigital nerve. The patients were followed-up for a mean of 4.6 years (range 0.8-8.1 years) and scored using the Foot Functional Index and the American Orthopedic Foot Ankle Society scoring system. In 74 patients the Foot Functional Index was more than 85 (maximum score 100). Seventy-one patients scored more than 90 on the American Orthopedic Foot Ankle Society scoring system with two patients scoring 100 (maximum score). Postoperatively, 82% reported excellent or good results, 10% had a fair result with restriction of activities or pain and 8% had no improvement at all after surgery while 71% had restrictions with footwear.

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Metatarsophalangeal Joint / innervation
  • Metatarsophalangeal Joint / physiopathology
  • Metatarsophalangeal Joint / surgery*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuralgia / etiology
  • Neuralgia / physiopathology
  • Neuralgia / surgery*
  • Neuroma / complications
  • Neuroma / physiopathology
  • Neuroma / surgery*
  • Peripheral Nerves / physiopathology
  • Peripheral Nerves / surgery
  • Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms / complications
  • Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Recovery of Function
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult