Sensory recovery in the plantar aspect of the foot after surgical decompression of posterior tibial nerve. Possible role of steroids along with decompression

Abstract

In leprosy, involvement of the posterior tibial nerve leads to sensory loss in the plantar aspect of the foot. As a result plantar ulcers are common and lead to deformity and disability. Restoration of plantar sensation can prevent ulcer formation. Posterior tibial decompression was done for the recovery of sensation in the plantar aspect of the foot. Seventy-two patients under went decompression on 84 feet, 25 received steroids pre- and post-operatively. The recovery of sensation was better if surgery was done before 6 months of onset of anaesthesia. Decompression along with steroids gave better results than decompression alone in patients with active neuritis especially in BT cases whereas in BB, BL and LL cases there was no significant improvement of sensation. The results are discussed.