Surgical Treatment

When conservative attempts have failed to relieve symptoms, surgical treatment should be considered. Typically, surgical treatment involves removal of the neuroma. Other surgical treatments may include nerve repair and salvage (neurolysis) and endoscopic techniques to visualize the nerve with a camera and release the deep transverse metatarsal ligament. Plantar, dorsal, and web space incisions are the most common surgical approaches. After surgery, the patient can usually bear weight on the foot. Typical recovery can last from 3 to 6 weeks. Residual numbness between the toes can be expected. Infrequently, the nerve may attempt to grow back, resulting in the reformation of a neuroma with subsequent pain.