Promising Outcomes of Ultrasound-Guided Pulsed Radiofrequency for the Treatment of Morton's Neuromas - A Prospective Study.

BACKGROUND

Morton's neuroma is a compressive neuropathy of the common plantar digital nerve, causing significant pain and limiting patients' activities.

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the effect of pulsed radiofrequency (PRF) on the pain, functionality, and quality of life experienced by patients with Morton's neuroma.

STUDY

DESIGN

This was a prospective study with pre- and post-intervention assessments after one, 3, and 6 months of treatment.

SETTING

The orthopedics department of an affiliated hospital.

METHODS

Patients with Morton's neuroma underwent treatment with ultrasound-guided PRF in 2 sites around the neuroma for 8 minutes. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the visual analog scale (VAS), the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) questionnaire for assessing foot function, and the Short Form-36 (SF-36) for quality of life.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients (29 feet) completed the 6-month minimum follow-up period. The VAS and face scale values at follow-up were statistically lower than the pre-procedure VAS scores (P < 0.05). The AOFAS and SF-36 values at follow-up were statistically higher than the pre-procedure values (P < 0.05). No significant adverse events were recorded during the follow-up.

LIMITATIONS: The prospective research features a limited follow-up duration and lacks an additional group, whether control or treatment, for result comparisons.

CONCLUSION

Applications of PRF decreased the pain and the improved functionality and quality of life experienced by patients with Morton's neuroma for a 6-month follow-up at minimum.