Neurectomy Outcomes in Patients With Morton Neuroma: Comparison of Plantar Vs Dorsal Approaches

Background: Morton neuroma is a compressive neuropathy of the plantar digital nerve. Several surgical approaches have been used to treat painful Morton neuroma, with each approach having distinct advantages and disadvantages. For this study, we used validated outcome assessment tools to retrospectively compare patient satisfaction with 2 approaches.

Methods: The medical records and survey responses of 37 patients with 42 neuromas were evaluated with respect to outcomes and patient satisfaction after neurectomies performed through either a plantar or dorsal surgical approach by one Ochsner Clinic Foundation attending physician. Outcomes were evaluated using the 36-Item Short Form Health Survey (SF-36) and the Foot Function Index (FFI) self-assessments.

Results: Twenty patients underwent neurectomy through a dorsal approach, and 17 patients underwent neurectomy through a plantar approach. We found no statistically significant differences between the dorsal and plantar approach groups with respect to outcomes and patient satisfaction as measured by the SF-36 or the FFI.

Conclusion: This study supports the use of either the plantar or dorsal approach for the resection of Morton neuroma and suggests that a plantar approach for neurectomy can produce satisfactory results.