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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.
Abstract:
Calcification of the posterior portion of the calcaneus has numerous terms that refer to this pathology. Given the number of names, there can be confusion when discussing the different pathologies involving calcification at the insertion of the Achilles tendon at the calcaneus. Two of the diagnosis that can be confused with each other are Haglund's deformity and Achilles insertional calcific tendinosis. This article discusses how these 2 entities are differentiated clinically and how their surgical management is different.

