Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus Bone

Osteochondral lesion of the talus bone are injuries to the bottom bone of the ankle joint that involve both the bone and the overlying cartilage. They can occur after a traumatic injury such as a fracture or sprain or as a result of repeated trauma. Common symptoms include prolonged pain, swelling, catching and/or instability of the ankle joint. Nonsurgical treatment is appropriate for certain lesions and usually involves immobilization and restricted weight bearing to allow the injured cartilage and bone to heal. Other lesions may be more appropriately treated with surgery. The goals of surgery are to restore the normal shape and gliding surface of the talus in order to re-establish normal mechanics. The hope is to minimize symptoms and limit the risk of developing arthritis. Depending on the characteristics and location of the lesion, arthroscopic surgery may be recommended.