Nerve Entrapment from a Lisfranc Joint Fusion

Dear Ask The Doctor: It has been recommended that I have my deep peroneal nerve clipped right above the foot due to entrapment from a Lis Franc joint fusion. The entrapment is causing severe pain. What are the risks of this especially for people that have had trouble healing from every surgery they've ever had.

Dear Vicky: Midfoot arthritis is due to two differing problems. The first is due to trauma or sprain of the midfoot which results in a partial dislocation of the midfoot and arthritis over time. The second common cause is degeneration or loss of cartilage in the midfoot due to abnormal wear and tear or looseness of the midfoot and chronic abnormal motion. The conventional treatment for this condition includes physical therapy, orthotic and bracing care to limit abnormal motion and possibly injection therapy. In most cases a period of relief may be available with conservative care. However, the arthritic process will continue to get worse and, in most cases, surgical correction is often required. In cases of severe arthritis, a fusion of the arthritic joint is required to relieve pain. A limited amount of motion loss may be noted, but most patients relate a high level of pain relief and improved function after surgical fusions of the midfoot. The most common complications are: chronic pain, neurovascular injury including superficial or deep peroneal nerve palsy, compartment syndrome and post traumatic arthritis. I strongly recommend you a new revaluation and look for a second opinion before to make any decision that involves the clipping of the peroneal nerve.