[Solitary calcaneal cyst]

Area of Science:

• Orthopedic Surgery
• Radiology
• Pathology

Context:

• Solitary calcaneal cysts present a diagnostic challenge, ranging from benign conditions to malignant tumors.
• Intraosseous lipomas constitute a significant percentage (10-50%) of these calcaneal cysts.
• The differential diagnosis includes benign cysts, lipomas, and rare cases like tuberculoma.

Purpose:

• To analyze the surgical treatment and histological findings of solitary calcaneal cysts.
• To evaluate the efficacy of surgical excision and bone grafting in managing these lesions.
• To highlight the importance of surgical intervention for diagnosis and fracture prevention.

Summary:

• A retrospective analysis of four patients undergoing surgery for calcaneal cysts over 20 years revealed three lipomas and one tuberculoma.
• The patients' demographics aligned with findings from previous studies, with a notable geographical correlation to mining regions.
• Surgical management involved cyst removal and filling with synthetic bone substitute (plastic spongiosa).

Impact:

• Surgical intervention is crucial for definitive diagnosis (benign vs. malignant) of calcaneal cysts.
• The procedure effectively prevents spontaneous fractures of the calcaneus.
• This approach ensures appropriate management and improves patient outcomes for heel bone pathologies.