Efficacy of Radiofrequency by the Topaz Technique for Chronic Plantar Fasciopathy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Abstract

<b>Background/Objectives:</b> Chronic plantar fasciopathy is a degenerative pathology that elicits persistent heel pain, significantly impacting quality of life. When conservative treatments fail to yield satisfactory outcomes, radiofrequency microtenotomy utilizing the Topaz technique presents a minimally invasive alternative with regenerative potential. This study aims to evaluate its efficacy in pain reduction, functional improvement, and complication rate compared to other treatments. <b>Methods:</b> A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA guidelines and registered in PROSPERO (CRD4202525648314). PubMed, EBSCOhost, Web of Science, and Scopus (2014-2024) were comprehensively searched to identify studies on the Topaz technique for refractory chronic plantar fasciopathy. Clinical trials, cohort studies, and case series were included, and a meta-analysis was performed using a random-effects model to assess pain, the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society function(AOFAS), and complications. <b>Results:</b> Fifteen studies encompassing 1576 patients were analyzed. The meta-analysis demonstrated a significant reduction in pain of 5.90 points on the VAS scale (95% CI: 5.03 to 6.77, <i>p</i> < 0.001) and a functional improvement of 0.28 points on the AOFAS scale (95% CI: 0.27 to 0.28, <i>p</i> < 0.001). The complication rate was low (3.00%), with high patient satisfaction (90%) and rapid recovery. <b>Conclusions:</b> The findings suggest that the Topaz technique is a safe and effective option for chronic plantar fasciopathy, demonstrating significant improvements and minimal complications.