Endoscopic bony and soft-tissue decompression of the retrocalcaneal space for the treatment of Haglund deformity and retrocalcaneal bursitis.

BACKGROUND: The traditional operative management of Haglund deformity and retrocalcaneal bursitis consists of an open excision of the inflamed bursa, resection of the posterosuperior calcaneal tuberosity, and debridement of the Achilles tendinopathy. In an effort to reduce morbidity and recovery time, an endoscopic technique was used for the management of this condition.

METHODS: Thirty consecutive patients (32 heels) who had retrocalcaneal bursitis unrelieved by nonoperative measures were treated with the endoscopic technique. Two portals were created, one laterally and one medially, over the posterosuperior portion of the calcaneus to gain access to the retrocalcaneal space. The inflamed bursal tissue was removed, and the prominent bone was resected. Patients were evaluated preoperatively and postoperatively with the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Ankle-Hindfoot Scale.

RESULTS: The mean followup was 35 months. Twenty-eight patients (30 heels) were available for followup. The AOFAS scores averaged 62 preoperatively and 97 postoperatively. There were 26 excellent results, three good results and one poor result. One major and one minor complication occurred: an Achilles tendon rupture three weeks after surgery and residual pain and swelling that required reoperation through an open procedure. There were no wound complications or postoperative infections.

CONCLUSIONS: The endoscopic technique can be done outpatient and has a low morbidity and high patient satisfaction. The time to return to normal activity level is short. Sufficient exposure of the Achilles tendon and removal of the calcaneal prominence and retrocalcaneal bursa can be done effectively using an endoscopic technique.