Pertrochanteric Calcifications in Patients With Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome: Description, Prevalence, and Correlation With Intraoperatively Diagnosed Hip Abductor Tendon Injuries
Authors: Rosinsky PJ, Yelton MJ, Ankem HK, Meghpara MB, Maldonado DR, Shapira J, Yelton BR, Lall AC, Domb BG
DOI: 10.1177/03635465211008104
Background:
Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS) is commonly associated with hip abductor tendon pathology. The presence and implications of pertrochanteric calcifications in this patient population remain underexplored.
Methods:
This study reviewed patients with GTPS undergoing surgery, analyzing radiographic calcifications and correlating these findings with intraoperative hip abductor tendon injury severity.
Key Findings:
- Pertrochanteric calcifications were frequently observed in GTPS patients.
- Enthesophyte-type calcifications were significantly associated with more severe tendon injuries, including full-thickness tears.
Conclusions:
Pertrochanteric calcifications, particularly enthesophytes, serve as important radiographic markers that correlate with hip abductor tendon injury severity and may assist in preoperative planning.
What Does This Mean for Providers?
- Identify and characterize calcifications on imaging in GTPS patients as they may indicate more severe abductor tendon damage.
- Use the presence of enthesophytes to anticipate potential intraoperative findings and tailor surgical planning accordingly.
- Consider more aggressive or targeted management strategies for patients with calcifications suggestive of advanced tendon pathology.
- Incorporate this imaging information into patient counseling regarding prognosis and treatment expectations.