Osteoid osteoma in the ankle and foot. An overview of 50 years of experience

Abstract Background The literature published about osteoid osteoma (OO) in the ankle-foot consists mainly on case reports. Methods We performed a retrospective study in which we analyzed demographic parameters, pain characteristics, treatment options and functional outcomes measured using the AOFAS and the SEFAS scales. Results We treated 17 patients with OO around the ankle-foot. Eighty-eight percent of patients had night pain that was relieved with NSAIDs. The bones most often affected were the talus and calcaneus. OO was diagnosed 21 months after the onset of symptoms. Mean follow-up was 17.3 years. The surgical techniques most used were curettage and curettage and bone grafting. There was a significant increase in AOFAS and SEFAS scores after surgery. Conclusions Suspicion is the base of a prompt and a correct diagnosis of OO. The OO should be especially suspected in patients who present night pain that can be relieved with NSAIDs.