Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodissection for Sural Neuropathy After Calcaneus Fracture Surgery: A Case Report

Cureus. 2023 Oct 26;15(10):e47749. doi: 10.7759/cureus.47749. eCollection 2023 Oct.

Abstract

We present a case study of a 61-year-old man who experienced sural neuropathy following calcaneus fracture surgery, which was effectively treated using ultrasound-guided hydrodissection. Postoperatively, while the patient exhibited good bony fusion, he reported pain on the lateral side of the calcaneus. Ultrasound findings did not suggest any nerve discontinuity, but localized tenderness around the sural nerve was observed. After hydrodissection using 0.09% lidocaine, the patient's pain significantly decreased. Although hydrodissection alleviated the pain, complete resolution was achieved only post plate removal and neurolysis. This study represents the first report on the efficacy of hydrodissection for postoperative sural neuropathy, suggesting its potential as an effective treatment option.

Keywords: calcaneus fracture; hydrodissection; sural neuropathy; surgery; ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Case Reports