Minimally invasive peripheral nerve surgery: Peroneal nerve neurolysis

BACKGROUND: Both patients and surgeons recognize the value of procedures that minimize scarring and tissue dissection. No previous reports have described a minimally invasive technique for peroneal nerve neurolysis, or evaluated its safety. METHODS: The senior author's technique for a minimally invasive approach to neurolysis of the common, superficial, and deep peroneal nerves is presented. Safety of the technique was determined by review of records of all patients undergoing this procedure from 2003-2011, looking for major complications. RESULTS: Using the minimally invasive approach to peroneal nerve neurolysis, average skin incision size is 3.5 cm for the common peroneal nerve, 4 cm for the superficial peroneal nerve, and 2.5 cm for the deep peroneal nerve. In 400 patients undergoing 679 total procedures, there were no nerve injuries, postoperative neuromas, or adjacent structures harmed. CONCLUSIONS: Peroneal nerve neurolysis can be accomplished safely and effectively via a minimal skin incision, improving aesthetic results and decreasing possible scar-related complications.