Thomas Morton's disease: a nerve entrapment syndrome. A new surgical technique.

A new interpretation of the surgical treatment of Morton's neuroma consists of release of the anterior edge of the deep plantar fascia (deep intermetacarpal ligament) without resection of the neuroma. In 206 patients treated with this technique, 83% had rapid and stable improvement. An additional 15% were improved but with some persistence of pain. Division of the ligament without excision of the neuroma provides good pain relief in most patients without the hazards of loss of sensation, loss of sweat production, or neuroma development in the nerve stump.