Differentiating Achilles Insertional Calcific Tendinosis and Haglund's Deformity

Sean T Grambart1, Jay Lechner2, Jennifer Wentz2

  • 1Des Moines University, College of Podiatric Medicine and Surgery, 3200 Grand Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50312, USA; Unitypoint Health - Iowa Methodist Medical Center, Des Moines, IA, USA.

Insights

Haglund

Area of Science:

  • Orthopedic Surgery
  • Radiology

Background:

  • Calcification at the Achilles tendon insertion on the calcaneus presents with varied terminology.
  • This can lead to diagnostic confusion between similar conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To differentiate Haglund's deformity from Achilles insertional calcific tendinosis.
  • To outline distinct clinical and surgical management strategies for these two pathologies.

Main Methods:

  • Clinical differentiation based on patient presentation and physical examination.
  • Review of surgical approaches for each condition.

Main Results:

  • Haglund's deformity and Achilles insertional calcific tendinosis have distinct clinical findings.
  • Surgical interventions differ based on the specific diagnosis.

Conclusions:

  • Accurate differentiation between Haglund's deformity and Achilles insertional calcific tendinosis is crucial.
  • Tailored surgical management improves patient outcomes for calcaneal pathologies.