Outcome of Percutaneous Release of the Plantar Fascia

Background: Plantar fasciitis, a common cause of heel pain, often becomes chronic despite conservative therapies. If the patient’s symptoms persist for more than 6-12 months without responding to conservative treatment, it is advisable to consider more invasive interventions or surgery. Multiple techniques have been documented, including open plantar fascia release, endoscopic plantar fasciotomy with ultrasound guidance, percutaneous or open plantar fasciotomy. The aim of the work: To evaluate the efficacy of Percutaneous Plantar Fascia Release (PPFR) with calcaneal spur resection in refractory cases. Patients and methods: prospective interventional study was conducted on 20 patients (30–60 years) with chronic plantar fasciitis unresponsive to ≥6 months of conservative treatment. All patients underwent PPFR under spinal anesthesia. A prophylactic intravenous antibiotic was administered one hour preoperatively, followed by postoperative oral prophylaxis. Outcomes were assessed using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) at baseline, 4 weeks, 3 months, and 6 months postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included patient satisfaction, complications, and recurrence. Statistical analysis was performed using paired t-tests. Results: Significant improvements were observed: AOFAS scores rose from 56.70 ± 9.03 to 96.20 ± 2.95 (p < 0.001), and VAS scores decreased by 85.73% (p < 0.001). Patient satisfaction was 85%, with minor complications (15%) and a 10% recurrence rate. Conclusion: PPFR is effective for chronic plantar fasciitis, offering high satisfaction, rapid recovery, and minimal complications. It is recommended after failed conservative management.