Surgical Treatment of Foot Drop: Patient Evaluation and Peripheral Nerve Treatment Options

Abstract

Foot drop is a common clinical condition which may substantially impact physical function and health-related quality of life. The etiologies of foot drop are diverse and a detailed history and physical examination are essential in understanding the underlying pathophysiology and capacity for spontaneous recovery. Patients presenting with acute foot drop or those without significant spontaneous recovery of motor deficits may be candidates for surgical intervention. The timing, mechanism, and severity of neural injury resulting in foot drop influence the selection of the most appropriate peripheral nerve surgery, which may include direct nerve repair, neurolysis, nerve grafting, or nerve transfer.

Keywords: Decompression; Direct repair; Foot drop; Nerve graft; Nerve transfer; Neurolysis; Peroneal nerve.