Fields of treatment / Orthopedy / Exostosis
Exostosis
It is a growth of a new bone on top of another bone or cartilage. Exostosis shows up in childhood (due to genetics). It also occurs as a result of an injury. Although exostosis is benign, it may cause pain, bone deformation and it may worsen function of the joint.
Types and treatments
Exostosis on the dorsal portion of the hand can be treated by a simple surgical procedure, carried out as an outpatient. The surgery requires local anaesthesia and involves removing the bony growth
Haglund’s deformity is exostosis on the heel of the foot. The bony growth forms as a result of long term mechanical irritation, caused by wearing poorly fitting shoes. The main symptom is pain in the heel when walking. Bursae around Achilles tendon may be inflamed as well, worsening the condition. Nonsurgical treatment includes switching to appropriate footwear with heel pads as well as laser therapy. Surgery might be required some cases of the condition. The growth is surgically removed in an outpatient procedure.
