Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

Lee, Keun Bae

Abstract

Osteochondral lesions of the talus are isolated cartilage and/or bone lesions that are known cause of chronic ankle pain. They can occur as the result of a single acute ankle injury or from repetitive loading of the talus. Technical development in radiologic imaging and ankle arthroscopy have improved diagnostic capabilities for detecting osteochondral lesions. Characteristics which are important in assessing an osteochondral lesions include: the size, the type (chondral, subchondral, cystic), the stability, the displacement, the location, and the containment of lesion. Nonoperative treatment involving period of casting and non-weight-bearing is recommended for acute, non-displaced osteochondral lesions in select pediatric and adolescent patients. Operative treatment is recommended for unstable lesions or failed conservative management. Marrow stimulation techniques (abrasion chondroplasty, multiple drilling, microfracture), osteochondral autograft or allograft, autologous chondrocyte implantation, are frequently employed. The purpose of this article is to review the historical background, etiology, classification systems, diagnostic strategies, and to describe a systematic approach to management of osteochondral lesions of the talus.