Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a robust method used for both preoperative and
postoperative evaluation of Morton's neuroma and other neural lesions. MRI is used
to confirm the diagnosis and for precise localization, estimation of outcome, and
differential diagnoses. The differential diagnoses include mechanically induced plantar
plate ruptures with associated Morton's neuroma–like tumors in the intermetatarsal/interdigital
spaces; mechanical fibrosis cushion formations and pseudo bursae in the plantar foot
adipose tissue; rheumatologic affections, such as rheumatoid nodules, gouty nodules,
and intermetatarsal bursitis; and lastly the tenosynovial giant cell tumor (formerly
called pigmented villonodular synovitis). In the postoperative evaluation after resection
of Morton's neuroma, the same differential diagnoses must be considered as in the
preoperative evaluation. Similarly, a high prevalence (up to 25%) of asymptomatic
Morton's neuroma–like findings in the intermetatarsal and interdigital spaces should
be kept in mind when interpreting postoperative recurrent forefoot pain after Morton's
neuroma resection.
Keywords
Morton's neuroma - nerve lesion - MRI - postoperative
