Abstract
Introduction : Calcific myonecrosis is a rare type of calcified lesion, which can occur more than 10 years after a physical injury. Compartment syndrome is suggested to be the underlying cause. We report four cases of calcific myonecrosis arising in the leg.
Patients and methods : Between 1991 and 2013, four patients presented with expanding masses in the lower limbs more than 20 years after sustaining trauma. All of the patients were males, ranging in age from 51 to 66 years (mean 56 years).
Results : Three patients underwent excision and one was treated conservatively. Three patients had no complications after surgery, such as infection and local recurrence. In the patient who was treated conservatively, the mass did not become enlarged, and was still painless after 2 years of follow-up.
Conclusion : Although calcific myonecrosis is not commonly encountered, it can be diagnosed on the basis of its specific clinical course and imaging. In confirmed cases of calcific myonecrosis, simple observation may be feasible and surgical intervention should be avoided because of the high rate of postoperative complication.
