A Novel Approach for Plantar Fasciitis Surgery: Evaluation of a Third Portal Technique

Aktekın M., Yılmaz E., Yozgatlı T. K., Aktekin A., Kocaoğlu B.

IFAA 2024 21st Congress of the International Federation of Associations of Anatomists, Gwangju, Güney Kore, 5 - 08 Eylül 2024, ss.223-224

  • Yayın Türü: Bildiri / Özet Bildiri
  • Basıldığı Şehir: Gwangju
  • Basıldığı Ülke: Güney Kore
  • Sayfa Sayıları: ss.223-224
  • Acıbadem Mehmet Ali Aydınlar Üniversitesi Adresli: Evet

Özet

Purpose: The treatment of plantar fasciitis, a common and debilitating foot condition, continues to evolve with advancements in surgical techniques. This study presents a novel approach involving the introduction of a third (vertical) portal on the plantar surface in addition to the conventional medial and lateral portals. The research aims to assess the anatomical relationships and potential advantages of this innovative surgical technique. Methods: The investigation involved the examination of five fresh frozen cadaver feet. Initial procedures included the precise placement of portals under fluoroscopic guidance. Subsequently, dissection was carried out to expose the plantar nerves and analyze their spatial relationships with the newly introduced third portal, alongside the established medial and lateral portals. Results: Some of the distances between these portals and the plantar nerves were measured by digital caliper and recorded as follows: distances between the3rd (new) portal and the lateral calcaneal nerve and inferior calcaneal branch were 14.16 mm and 10.07 mm, respectively. The shortest distance between the inferior calcaneal branch and the calcaneal bone was 8.36 mm, and the distance between the medial portal and the inferior calcaneal branch was 9.78 mm. The most significant result of the study was that the suggested third portal offers a clear visualization of the possible heel spur that in turn leads to better cleansing of it while minimizing the risk of injuring the lateral plantar nerve. Conclusion: In conclusion, this study presents a promising alternative to traditional plantar fasciitis surgery, providing valuable insights into the anatomical nuances associated with the proposed third portal technique. The findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on refining surgical approaches for plantar fasciitis and offer clinicians an informed perspective on balancing the benefits and challenges of implementing this innovative methodology.