Effects and risks of performing a single incision endoscopic plantar fasciotomy - An anatomical study

Abstract

Background: Chronic plantar fasciitis with insufficient improvement after conservative treatment can be addressed by surgery. Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy using a single incision technique is an innovative treatment strategy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects and potential risks of damaging anatomical structures when performing this technique.

Methods: 40 fresh-frozen foot specimens underwent single incision endoscopic plantar fasciotomy. Operations of group A (n = 20) were done by an experienced surgeon, operations of group B (n = 20) were done by unexperienced residents.

Results: In both groups, all major vessels or nerves remained undamaged. Sufficient transection (>90%) was found in 16 of 20 specimens (group A) and 10 of 20 specimens (group B) (p = 0.047).

Conclusions: Our results show that single incision endoscopic plantar fasciotomy can be safely performed even by unexperienced surgeons. In contrast to that, complete transection of the medial fascicle is dependent on the surgeon's experience.

Keywords: Anatomical structures; Endoscopic plantar fasciotomy; Minimally invasive; Plantar fasciitis; Single incision.