Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

Osteochondral lesions of the talus are uncommon sources of ankle pain in athletes that can occur after traumatic ankle sprains. They are often found incidentally on ankle x-rays obtained for ankle sprains or to rule out ankle fractures. In patients and athletes with pain in the ankle joint from a presumed ankle sprain but with persistent symptoms, x-rays, CT scans, or MRIs can reveal the diagnosis.

The lesion itself is an injury to the cartilage and subchondral bone within the ankle joint. They can occur laterally on the talus or medially.

Some of these lesions can be treated nonoperatively with immobilization and limitation of weightbearing. If the fragment is displaced, surgery is usually required. Surgery can consist of arthroscopically drilling the lesion or performing a microfracture of it. Depending on the size and location, using a cylinder of bone and cartilage from the patient or from a donor might be needed.

Return to sports depends on healing of the lesion, but this is a significant surgery. Return to sports in the same season is unlikely, as it can take many months to get back to full running and athletic activities.

If you have specific questions about osteochondral lesions of the talus, please Ask Dr. Geier directly or Schedule an Appointment.

Other Leg, Ankle & Foot Injuries
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles Tendon Ruptures
Ankle Impingement
Ankle Fractures
Ankle Sprains
Calcaneus Stress Fractures
Chronic Exertional Compartment Syndrome
Fifth Metatarsal Fracture (Jones fracture)
Flexor Hallucis Longus (FHL) Tendinitis
Hallux Rigidus
Lateral Ankle Instability
Lisfranc Injuries
Metatarsal Stress Fracture
Navicular Stress Fracture
Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus
Peroneal Tendon Subluxation
Plantar Fasciitis
Sever’s Disease
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Syndesmosis Injuries (“High Ankle Sprains”)
Tibia Fracture
Tibial Stress Fracture
Turf Toe