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Bilateral ossification in the Achilles tendon: a case report
Foot & Ankle International
|January 4, 2001
Summary
Bilateral Achilles tendon ossification, a rare condition, can lead to fractures in the ectopic bone. Surgical repair demonstrated successful healing and complete bony rebuilding, indicating normal bone behavior.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- A 57-year-old male with a history of childhood bilateral clubfoot presented with bilateral symmetrical Achilles tendon ossification.
- Part of his Achilles tendons had been replaced by ectopic bony masses, with a spontaneous fracture occurring in the left tendon.
Observation:
- The patient experienced a fracture of the ectopic bone within the left Achilles tendon without any preceding trauma.
- The fracture was surgically managed using vertical thinning, intraosseal suture (osteosynthesis), and tendon flap plasty.
Findings:
- The pathological condition healed completely within three months post-surgery.
- Seven years after the operation, X-rays confirmed total bony rebuilding of the affected Achilles tendon segment.
Implications:
- Ectopic bone formation in tendons can mimic normal bone, exhibiting similar biological behavior.
- This case highlights the potential for pathological fractures in ossified tendons and the efficacy of surgical intervention for successful reconstruction.