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Published on: January 23, 2018
Endoscopic surgery in athletes with a symptomatic calcaneal lipoma
P D'Hooghe1, B Krivokapic2, P Dzendrowskyj2
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Aspetar Orthopaedic and Sportsmedicine Hospital, Aspire Zone, Sportscity Street 1, PoBox 29222, Doha, Qatar. pieter.dhooghe@aspetar.com.
Purpose:
This study shows that endoscopy is an effective treatment modality for athletes with a symptomatic calcaneal lipoma.
Methods:
Between 2013 and 2016, five professional athletes with symptomatic calcaneal lipoma underwent endoscopic-assisted curettage and bone graft treatment. Lipoma size was measured by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and rated using the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society Ankle-Hindfoot Scale (AOFAS). All athletes were followed up for 12 months postoperatively and monitored on return to previous activity level.
Results:
The mean ankle-hindfoot scale score improved from a preoperative 71.3 +/-3.9 points (median 67-81) to a postoperative 97.8 +/-3.4 points (median 89-100). Radiological assessment revealed no recurrence or pathologic fracture, with adequate bone fill-up in all 5 cases. All athletes returned to their previous level of activity within 8 weeks of surgery (mean period 7.2 weeks, median 5-8 weeks).
Conclusion:
Endoscopic surgery can be used as a valid treatment tool for athletes with a calcaneal lipoma. It allows for a safe and early return to sports activities and minimises risk for recurrence and pathological fracture after initial return to play.
Level Of Evidence:
IV.
