Endoscopic calcaneoplasty

Abstract

Endoscopic calcaneoplasty offers access to the retrocalcaneal space, thereby making it possible to remove inflamed retrocalcaneal bursa as well as the posterosuperior part of the calcaneus in applicable cases of painful hindfoot. In this study, endoscopic calcaneoplasty was performed in 21 procedures in 20 patients. All of the patients had typical complaints of inflammation of the retrocalcaneal bursa that were unresponsive to nonoperative treatment for more than 6 months. In all patients a superior calcaneal angle of more than 75 degrees and positive parallel pitch lines were present on the lateral calcaneal radiograph. The mean follow-up was 3.9 years (range, 2 to 6.5). There were no surgical complications and no postoperative infections. One patient had a fair result, 4 patients had good results, and the remaining 15 patients had excellent results. Whether this operation is performed by endoscopic or open technique, enough bone must be removed to prevent impingement of the bursa between the calcaneus and Achilles tendon. Endoscopic calcaneoplasty is a minimally invasive technique performed in an outpatient setting and combined with a functional rehabilitation program. The procedure has low morbidity. Patients have a short recovery time and quickly resume work and sports.