Transcatheter Arterial Embolization (TAE) of Plantar Fasciitis:: New study offers promising results

Plantar fasciitis, a common condition causing chronic heel pain, can be frustrating and debilitating. Traditional treatments often fall short, leaving many patients seeking alternative solutions. A recent study suggests that TAE, a minimally invasive procedure, could be a game-changer.

How Does TAE Work?

Pain in chronic plantar fasciitis is linked to increased fascial vascularity. TAE involves blocking blood flow to the affected area using a specialized catheter and embolic agent. By reducing blood supply, the procedure aims to reduce inflammation and pain where other therapies have failed.

A recent study in British Journal of Radiology (1) has demonstrated excellent outcomes in patients with refractory Plantar Fasciitis.

Study Highlights:

• Promising Results: In a small study, 10 patients with chronic plantar fasciitis who had failed prior treatments underwent TAE. The results were encouraging:
  • 100% of patients experienced technical success.
  • Patients reported significant pain reduction and improved quality of life.
  • No major complications were observed.
• Potential Benefits: TAE offers several potential advantages over traditional treatments:
  • Less Invasive: TAE is a minimally invasive procedure, requiring a needle puncture and shorter recovery time compared to surgery.
  • Effective for Refractory Cases: TAE may be particularly beneficial for patients who have not responded to other treatments.
  • Long-Term Benefits: While more research is needed, early evidence suggests that TAE may provide long-lasting pain relief.

The Road Ahead:

While the initial findings are promising, it's important to note that this study was relatively small. However this technique as science behind it has been used for similar musculoskeletal conditions with excellent outcomes. For example Genicular Artery Embolization (GAE) has been shown in numurous studies to reduce pain realted to knee osteoarthritis. 

TAE for plantar fasciitis offer a new hope for patients struggling with chronic heel pain. It's a breakthrough that could significantly improve the lives of many individuals affected by this condition.

(1) Gandhi R, Banker M. Early outcomes of transcatheter arterial embolization using imipenem/cilastatin for plantar fasciitis refractory to conservative therapy. Br J Radiol. 2024 Feb 28;97(1155):544-548. doi: 10.1093/bjr/tqae012. PMID: 38281074; PMCID: PMC11027232.