Nerve hydrodissection
Nerve hydrodissection is a procedure used to treat nerve entrapment syndromes
What is Nerve Hydrodissection?
Nerve hydrodissection is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure used to treat nerve entrapment syndromes, such as tarsal tunnel, baxters nerve, sural nerve, dorsal fibular cutaneous nerve in the foot and ankle.
The technique involves using high-resolution ultrasound guidance to inject a precise amount of fluid (we often use 5% glucose, prp or on occasions Vit B12) around a compressed or “pinched” nerve.
This fluid acts as a cushion to mechanically separate the nerve from the surrounding tissues, such as scar tissue, fascia, or tight muscles, that are putting pressure on it.
How the Procedure Works
The primary goals are to “free up” the nerve so it can move and glide normally within its anatomical space, and normalise nerve function and repair.
- Precision Guidance: Our expert podiatrist uses real-time high end ultrasound to visualize the entrapped nerve, the needle, and surrounding structures simultaneously. This makes it a safe procedure with minimal or no downtime.
- Injectate Choice: We use regenerative solutions, including 5% dextrose (D5W), platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and or occasionally Vit B12 to promote healing and nerve repair.
- Mechanical Release: The "jet force" of the fluid separates the nerve from adjacent structures without the need for surgical incisions.
- Repair of damaged nerves: These injectants are chosen for their ability to repair damaged nerves and normalize their function.
Common Conditions Treated
Nerve hydrodissection is frequently used for:
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome: Compression of the median nerve in the ankle causing pain in the heel and sole.
- Baxters Nerve Entrapment: Pinched nerve at heel region.
- Sural Nerve entrapment: Irritation of the surral nerve in outside of ankle and foot
- Dorsal Fibular cutaneous nerve at the front of ankle and top of foot. Nerve compression in the ankle.
- Scar Neuropathy: Pain caused any nerves that is trapped in post-surgical or post-traumatic scar tissue.
What to Expect
- In-Office Procedure: It typically takes about 15 to 40 minutes.
- Minimal Downtime: Most patients can return to normal activities immediately.
- Symptom Relief: Many experience immediate or rapid relief from numbness, tingling, and burning sensations, though some may require multiple treatments (1-3 ) for optimal results.
- Safety: Because it is guided by ultrasound, the risk of accidental nerve injury is very low compared to “blind” injections.
SPEAK TO A PODIATRIST
Our Foot and Ankle experts have been mentored by world experts and now have over 10 years’ experience in this technique.
Our leading podiatrist Jacqueline is an expert in this field and continues travel the globe for the latest in evidence based hydro dissection techniques.
We have a high end ultrasound system onsite, which allows improved visualisation, and thus better outcomes.
To investigate if you are a candidate for this technique, please make a booking online or by phone.
Book an appointment at Cheltenham Podiatry today. Or you can call our team on 03 9583 3093. Alternatively, you can contact us using the contact form below.
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