An Anatomic Analysis of Endoscopic Plantar Fascia Release

Eighteen fresh-frozen cadaver foot specimens underwent release of the plantar fascia via a newly described endoscopic technique. A 75% release was attempted on each specimen in order to represent a partial fascial release. Each specimen was then dissected to assess the success of the procedure. Five separate measurements were recorded evaluating the reproducibility of the procedure, adequacy of the release considering accepted etiologies for chronic heel pain, and the possibility of damage to local structures. Partial release was noted to be possible, but controlling the exact percentage of the incision was difficult. The release averaged 82% of the width of the fascia, with a range of 53% to 100%. There was no damage in any specimen to the first branch of the lateral plantar nerve, the structure considered most at risk during the procedure. Release of the deep fascia of the abductor hallucis muscle was not possible with this approach.