Practice Advisory: Utility of surgical decompression for treatment of diabetic neuropathy

Surgical decompression at the site of anatomic narrowing has been promoted as an alternative treatment for patients with symptomatic diabetic neuropathy. Systematic review of the literature revealed only Class IV studies concerning the utility of this therapeutic approach. Given the current evidence available, this treatment alternative should be considered unproven (Level U). Prospective randomized controlled trials with standard definitions and outcome measures are necessary to determine the value of this therapeutic intervention.