Endoscopic Tarsal Tunnel Decompression

This photo shows the size and appearance of the incision used for the endoscopic tarsal tunnel decompression (ETTD) immediately at the time of surgery.  Compare this to the photo below! which is the standard incision used for the open tarsal tunnel surgery.

Dr. Barrett started performing this technique in 2008, after more than 3 years of prototype development in the cadaver laboratory.  He presented his early clinical results at the prestigious minimally invasive Foot and Ankle Symposium in Murcia, Spain to  over 500 orthopedic surgeon attendees in April, 2009.  

The advantages of the ETTD technique are many, but here are the main factors for a patient to consider:  

1. The procedure is less invasive which can be seen in the pictures above and below
2. The patient can be allowed immediate weight bearing
3. There is less pain with the technique when compared to the "open" technique
4. Less scar tissue formation which could translate to less potential for re-entrapment of the nerves