Scott Ira Fields MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Eli London DPM, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Ofer Elishoov MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

This presentation will show the effectiveness of the new technique of ultrasound guided partial plantar fasciotomy (USGPPF) for pain reduction in patients with recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.

USGPPF was performed in 30 patients with persistent plantar fasciitis, unresponsive to multiple therapies, including NSAID, orthotics and physiotherapy, for a period of 3 to 9 months. All patients had a thickened (>5mm) plantar fascia on ultrasound examination. Under local anaesthesia and ultrasound guidance, a hypoechoic window in the plantar fascia, near the medial insertion, was created by repeated (15-20) penetration of an 18G needle through the plantar fascia. One ml of methylprednisolone acetate was injected directly into the plantar fasciotomy site under ultrasound guidance.

All patients showed pain reduction, from mild improvement to complete permanent disappearance of symptoms. The mean visual analogue scale (VAS)score decreased from 8.9±1.5 before USGPPF to 0.85 ± 1.57 after USGPPF.(p<0.05). All patients tolerated the procedure well. There were no complications

Ultrasound guided partial plantar fasciotomy (USGPPF) is a new, effective, safe and economical technique for the treatment of recalcitrant plantar fasciitis.

Fields, S, London, E, Elishoov, O, Effectiveness of Ultrasound-guided Partial Plantar Fasciotomy (USGPPF) in the Treatment of Recalcitrant Plantar Fasciitis.  Radiological Society of North America 2005 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, November 27 - December 2, 2005 ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2005/4411429.html