Understanding Neuroma Excision Surgery: A Guide for Patients
- Coriel
- Apr 2
- 3 min read
If you suffer from persistent forefoot pain or troublesome numbness caused by a neuroma, excision surgery may offer relief. Neuromas, or thickened sections of nerve tissue, can lead to discomfort and difficulty with everyday activities. This guide provides insights into the procedure, benefits, and recovery process.
What is Neuroma Excision Surgery?
Neuroma excision surgery involves removing the problematic neuroma to alleviate pain and improve foot function. It’s a relatively short procedure that typically does not require bone healing, making recovery more straightforward. The incision is usually placed on the top of the foot over the affected area, but in some cases, it may be made on the sole of the foot.
The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia, often at the base of the toe. This ensures you remain awake but pain-free during the surgery, which usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. Most patients find the anaesthesia to be more comfortable than a dental injection.
Why Consider This Surgery?
The main goals of neuroma excision surgery are:
To remove the thickened nerve tissue causing pain or numbness.
To reduce the impact on daily activities and improve footwear comfort.
The operation offers several advantages:
It’s a relatively short procedure.
No bone healing is required.
Recovery time is minimal compared to other foot surgeries.
Risks and Considerations
While neuroma excision surgery is generally safe, there are some specific risks to be aware of:
Thickened or tender scars: These may reduce over 12 months.
Areas of numbness: Sensation may improve gradually over a year.
Regrowth of the nerve: In rare cases, the nerve may regrow, requiring additional treatment.
Circulation issues: This may affect adjacent toes.
Your consultant will discuss these risks with you in detail to ensure you have a clear understanding of the procedure.
Who is a Candidate for This Procedure?
This surgery is suitable for individuals experiencing:
Persistent forefoot or toe pain caused by a neuroma.
Difficulty wearing standard footwear despite sensible choices.
Before surgery is considered, alternative treatments may be recommended, including:
Adjusting activity levels.
Using painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications.
Wearing wider or specially designed footwear.
Trying in-shoe foot supports or orthotics.
Undergoing steroid injection therapy or surgical decompression.
What to Expect During Surgery
Neuroma excision is typically performed as a day procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. While the surgery itself takes about 30-60 minutes, you will spend additional time in the day surgery unit before and after the procedure to rest.
A competent adult must accompany you home and stay with you for the first night to ensure your safety and comfort.
Recovery Timeline
First 2-4 Days:
Pain is most intense during this period, but painkillers will be provided.
Rest is crucial. Keep your foot elevated and limit movement to essential activities, using crutches if necessary.
Gradually increase activity after three days, staying within pain limits.
One Week After Surgery:
Attend a follow-up appointment for a dressing change.
Begin light activity within pain tolerance. Avoid overexertion as it may increase discomfort.
Two Weeks After Surgery:
Sutures will be removed unless located on the sole of the foot (these are removed after three weeks).
Bandages are no longer required, and you can get your foot wet.
Many patients can transition to regular shoes, although full recovery may take longer.
2-6 Weeks After Surgery:
The foot begins to return to normal, but swelling may persist, especially at the end of the day.
You may return to work, though active jobs may require additional recovery time.
Driving can resume if you can safely perform an emergency stop (check with your insurance provider).
Avoid sports and intense physical activity during this period.
8-12 Weeks After Surgery:
The foot should feel more normal, with less swelling.
Light sports can be reintroduced based on your recovery progress.
Six Months After Surgery:
A follow-up review will assess your progress.
Swelling should be minimal, and most patients experience the full benefits of the procedure.
Twelve Months After Surgery:
Full healing is typically complete, and improvements stabilise.
Planning for Recovery
To ensure a smooth recovery:
Arrange for a support system during the initial recovery phase.
Follow post-operative care instructions closely.
Use pain management and mobility aids as recommended by your medical team.
Neuroma excision surgery is an effective solution for managing pain and discomfort caused by a neuroma. With proper preparation and adherence to recovery guidelines, patients can experience significant relief and improved quality of life. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if this procedure is right for you.