Haglund's and Bursa Removal

Surgical Treatments for Haglund's and Retrocalcaneal Bursitis

Before reading this page, please see Haglund's and Retrocalcaneal Bursitis under the ACHILLES & HEEL menu for more information.

Note: there is a photograph of surgery below on this page.

Surgery is considered only when non-surgical treatments fail to resolve pain and inflammation.

There are two surgical treatments for Haglund's and retrocalcaneal bursitis:
  • mini-open removal (3 cm incision)
  • endoscopic removal (2 small incisions).
Most symptomatic people undergo mini-open removal (see image below) unless the Haglund's prominence is small.

Haglund's and Retrocalcaneal Bursa Removal Recovery

This surgical procedure involves removal of the Haglund's bony prominence and associated retrocalcaneal bursa. The Achilles tendon is also inspected for split tears.

Surgery:
  • is usually Day Surgery
  • requires a general anaesthetic in most people
  • takes 30 minutes.
First 2 weeks:
  • bandage and post-op shoe (no "moon-boot")
  • crutches for comfort
  • rest, elevation and ice (RICE)
  • ankle and foot movements
  • post-operative appointment.
Next 3 months:
  • increasing activities as swelling and ache allow
  • RICE as needed
  • physiotherapy-guided strengthening program
  • exercise bike, pool and gym exercises
  • return to sports specific training then sport.
Benefits and risks:
  • 90% of people are helped by surgery
  • the size of the heel prominence is reduced
  • 10% of people are not helped by surgery
  • 1% of people are made worse by surgery.
Consequences and Complications:

IMPORTANT

If you have any questions about your planned procedure, contact Dr Beamond before the day of surgery.

The information on this page is of a general nature and does not replace the informed consent process. Other consequences and risks specific (material) to the individual must be discussed prior to surgery.