Two Treatments, One verdict on Morton's Neuroma

Two Treatments, One Verdict on Morton's Neuroma

Read the centre's perspective on what new research comparing radiofrequency ablation and surgical excision for Morton's neuroma means for patients weighing their options.

A study published in International Orthopaedics (PubMed, 2026) compared 192 procedures across both radiofrequency ablation and surgical neurectomy for Morton's neuroma, finding that both reduced pain significantly. Surgical excision delivered greater pain relief, but radiofrequency ablation carried a notably lower complication rate — 3.7% versus 13% — making it a meaningful option for carefully selected patients.

Our take: We are only too aware of the concerns raised in this article.

There is no doubt that open surgery for Morton’s neuroma carries the greatest risk of complications when compared with less invasive procedures such as radiofrequency ablation or cryosurgery. Problems such as stump neuroma, where the cut end of the nerve remains painful, and chronic scar tissue following open surgery are very real and can be extremely difficult for patients.

At the London Podiatry Centre, we believe that minimally invasive options should usually be considered before open surgery. In our experience, cryosurgery carries a lower risk profile than radiofrequency ablation, and for this reason it is generally our first-line interventional treatment for suitable patients.

Cryosurgery aims to reduce neuroma pain by freezing the affected nerve-related tissue, without the same level of surgical disruption associated with open excision. While no procedure is completely risk-free, we regard it as a safer and less invasive option for many patients.

Open surgery can still have a place, particularly in selected cases where other treatments have failed or are unsuitable. However, patients should be fully informed about the potential risks and should only consider open surgery once appropriate minimally invasive techniques have been carefully discussed.

About the author
Mr Ron McCulloch — Consultant Podiatric Surgeon, Centre Director, and specialist in clinical biomechanics, gait analysis and Morton's neuroma.

Source: PubMed · https://londonpodiatry.com/en/specialities/mortons-neuroma/