Concomitant osteochondral lesion of the talus in ankle instability: Utilizing clinical presentation to guide imaging decision

Low ankle sprains are a prevalent issue, often involving the anterior talofibular ligament. While there is increased attention placed on ligamentous injuries in ankle sprains, concomitant cartilaginous injuries are frequently overlooked. This article aims to (Park et al., 2021) evaluate the significance of magnetic resonance imaging in anterior talofibular ligament injuries to detect concurrent osteochondral lesions of the talus as well as other associated ligamentous injuries; (Hølmer et al., 1994) determine the importance of clinical presentation and its association with the risk of concomitant osteochondral lesions in anterior talofibular ligament injuries. We conducted a retrospective analysis of 129 patients who underwent anterior talofibular ligament reconstruction, reviewing patient data to assess the incidence of osteochondral lesions of the talus and associated ligamentous injuries. Clinical presentations were then reviewed to identify signs and symptoms associated with the occurrence of osteochondral lesions of the talus. The results indicated that calcaneofibular ligament was most injured in association with anterior talofibular ligament injuries (69.52 %; n = 73). Furthermore. 31.78 % (n = 41) of patients with anterior talofibular ligament injuries had concurrent osteochondral lesion of the talus. Analysis on clinical presentation revealed statistical significance (p < .001) between patients that had ankle joint line tenderness lasting for more than 6 weeks and the occurrence of osteochondral lesions of the talus. This study concludes that magnetic resonance imaging could be beneficial in anterior talofibular ligament injuries with patients exhibiting persistent joint line tenderness to evaluate for osteochondral lesions to ensure a comprehensive pre-operative assessment.

Functional and radiographic outcomes of talar osteochondral lesions repaired with a combination of autologous bone graft, cell-free hyaluronic acid-based scaffold, bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) and fibrin glue

PURPOSE

To evaluate the efficacy of acellular hyaluronic acid matrix scaffold, BMAC, and autologous bone graft in providing biomechanical support and optimal microenvironment for OLTs treatment.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 81 ankles from 80 patients treated between 2018 and 2021 was conducted. The inclusion criteria included patients who underwent surgery for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) and received acellular hyaluronic acid matrix scaffold, bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) fibrin glue, and autologous bone graft. The exclusion criteria included prior ankle surgery, concurrent lateral instability surgery, malignancy, metabolic bone disease, or related medication. Clinical outcomes were assessed with FAOS, VAS, and SF-36 at a minimum of two years postoperatively. MRI findings were evaluated preoperatively, at six months, and 24 months postoperatively via MOCART. Subgroups were formed on the basis of age (< 45 vs. ≥45), BMI, and full weight bearing mobilization (FWBM) timing (4, 5, 6, or > 6 weeks).

RESULTS

Postoperative FAOS and SF-36 scores significantly improved (p = 0.000), whereas VAS scores decreased (p = 0.001). Early FWBM (4th week) was associated with superior FAOS, SF-36, and MOCART scores at 24 months (p = 0.039). Underweight and healthy individuals exhibited lower VAS (p = 0.001) and higher SF-36 scores (p = 0.000) at three months, alongside higher MOCART scores at 24 months compared to overweight patients (p = 0.039).

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the importance of a tailored approach to optimize the microenvironment and biomechanical support in OLTs treatment. Further research is required to refine therapeutic strategies.

Approach to Osteochondral Lesions of the Posteromedial Talar Dome: A Review of Arthroscopic Videos

Background

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) most commonly occur in the posteromedial talar dome; however, there are no consensus guidelines on the appropriate approach to performing microfracture; that is, whether adequate visualization can be achieved solely through anterior ankle arthroscopy as well as the circumstances under which posterior ankle arthroscopy is required.

Purpose

To ascertain whether (1) arthroscopic microfracture of posteromedial OLT can be accomplished solely through anterior ankle arthroscopy and (2) if there are specific conditions that may require posterior ankle arthroscopy.

Study Design

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed videos of patients who underwent primary arthroscopic microfractures for OLT on the posteromedial talar dome between January 2010 and June 2021. The enrolled patients were divided into 2 groups according to the direction of arthroscopy (anterior or posterior). Then, we focused on whether visualization of the posteromedial OLT was adequate through the anteromedial or anterolateral portal in the anterior ankle arthroscopy group (posteromedial or posterolateral portal in the posterior ankle arthroscopy group). Similarly, we assessed whether a sufficient microfracture technique was feasible during surgery.

Results

A total of 79 patients were included in this study, among which 62 and 17 were assigned to the anterior and posterior ankle arthroscopy groups, respectively. Posteromedial OLTs were fully observed through the anteromedial portal in 79.0% of cases and better observed through the anterolateral portal (93.5%). Among the patients who underwent anterior ankle arthroscopy, only 4 (6.5%) experienced limited visualization, leading to an insufficient microfracture procedure. In 2 of these 4 patients, we observed challenges in advancing the arthroscopy and other devices owing to the narrow joint space, even with sufficient distraction, whereas the remaining 2 showed infeasibilities derived from the location extending posteriorly beyond the tibial plafond on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging. In contrast, microfracture of posteromedial OLT via posterior ankle arthroscopy was successfully performed in all patients.

Conclusion

When surgically treating patients with posteromedial OLT, anterior ankle arthroscopy allowed for the successful performance of the microfracture procedure in most cases, unless there was a combined pathology necessitating surgical intervention on the posterior ankle. Posterior ankle arthroscopy can be selectively utilized only for far posteromedial OLT or in patients with narrow joint space, even with sufficient distraction.

No influence of patient age on operative treatment outcome of osteochondral lesions of the talus: data from the German Cartilage Registry (GCR, KnorpelRegister DGOU)

INTRODUCTION

The influence of patient age on the clinical outcome of surgically treated osteochondral lesions of the talus (OCT) is controversial. Aim of this study was to evaluate the 24 months follow-up data of the German Cartilage Registry (KnorpelRegister DGOU, GCR) regarding the influence of patient age on clinical outcomes after surgical OCT treatment.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

303 patients met the inclusion criteria and were divided into patients < 40 years (27.1 ± 5.8 years, n = 177) and patients ≥ 40 years (50.8 ± 7.4 years, n = 126). Pre- and postoperative FAOS total scores, subscores and ΔFAOS for most frequent surgical techniques (bone marrow stimulation, matrix-augmented bone marrow stimulation, matrix-augmented bone marrow stimulation with additional bone grafting) and lesion size characteristics were evaluated for both groups. ANOVA analysis with post hoc Duncan test was applied for statistical analysis.

RESULTS

Both patients < 40 years and patients ≥ 40 years benefit from surgical treatment of OCT showing significant changes from pre- to postoperative FAOS total score (63.8 ± 20.3 to 81.5 ± 17.8 in patients < 40 years, p < 0.001; 57.3 ± 20.1 to 74.9 ± 21.6 in patients ≥ 40 years, p < 0.001) and subscores. Younger patient group tended to higher pre- and postoperative scores. ΔFAOS was not different between both groups. Older patient group had significantly higher lesion size area and volume; proportion of additional bone grafting was increased.

CONCLUSION

Results of surgical therapy of OCTs are independent from patient age. There is no superiority of a specific surgical technique depending on patient age.

Effect of Cigarette Smoking on Postoperative Outcomes After Arthroscopic Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

BACKGROUND

Bone marrow stimulation (BMS) is presently considered first-line surgical treatment for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs); however, some patients still experience pain or dysfunction after surgery, and the reasons for success or failure remain somewhat unclear. This study aimed to investigate the effect of smoking on postoperative outcomes after arthroscopic BMS for OLTs.

METHODS

Consecutive patients with OLTs who underwent BMS between January 2017 and January 2020 were included. Smokers were defined as patients who actively consumed cigarettes before surgery and postoperatively, whereas nonsmokers were patients who never smoked. Visual analog scale (VAS), American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society ankle hindfoot score (AOFAS), Karlsson-Peterson, and Tegner scores were assessed preoperatively and at follow-up. Additionally, a general linear model (GLM) was performed, followed by the interaction analysis to explore the potential influence of smoking.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 104 patients with a mean follow-up of 30.91 ± 7.03 months, including 28 smokers and 76 nonsmokers. There were no significant differences in patient age (35.2 ± 10.0 years vs 37.6 ± 9.7 years, P = .282) or OLT area (63.7 ± 38.7 mm2 vs 52.8 ± 37.0 mm2, P = .782). Both univariate analysis and GLM revealed that smoking was associated with worse postoperative pain levels, Karlsson-Peterson, and AOFAS scores (P < .05). The interaction analysis showed a significant interaction between smoking and OLT area for postoperative Karlsson-Peterson scores (general ankle function) (P = .031). Simple main effects analysis revealed that the negative effect of smoking on Tegner score significantly increased among patients >32 years old or with OLT area>50 mm2 (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Smoking was associated with worse clinical outcomes following BMS of OLTs. As the size of OLTs increased, the difference in general ankle function between smokers and nonsmokers also increased. Furthermore, smokers who were older than 32 years or had larger OLTs were less likely to resume participation in high-level activities.

Deformity Correction: Do Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus and Tibia Change After Realignment Surgery?

Malalignment of the lower limb, distal tibia, foot, and hindfoot can all contribute to altered biomechanics in the ankle joint, resulting in increased focal pressure. The development of some osteochondral lesions of the ankle joint may share a similar pathophysiology, where eccentric loading to the talus or tibia within the ankle joint can lead to cartilage injury or adaptive changes. While the association between malalignment and the development of osteochondral lesions of the ankle joint may seem intuitive, the impact of realignment procedures on these lesions and patient symptoms remains a relatively underexplored topic in the literature. A comprehensive understanding of the potential role of realignment surgery in managing osteochondral lesions of the talus and tibia is crucial for advancing our knowledge of this challenging pathologic condition.

Atelocollagen-Induced Chondrogenesis Versus Microfracture Alone for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: Surgical Technique and a 1-Year Clinical Outcome Study

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) are a common cause of post-traumatic ankle pain and disability. Atelocollagen-induced chondrogenesis (ACIC) aims to encourage the development of hyaline cartilage, which is biomechanically superior to fibrocartilage. This single-center, retrospective database study assessed patients who underwent arthroscopic microfracture with or without atelocollagen scaffold augmentation for OLT. Between 2010 and 2019, 87 patients underwent microfracture only and 31 patients underwent ACIC. Propensity score matching was used to match the ACIC group in a 1:2 ratio to a corresponding microfracture-only group using logistic regression. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) scores, 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Short Form-36 (SF-36), and satisfaction were assessed at preoperative, 3-, 6-, and 12-month intervals. There were no differences in baseline characteristics between groups after matching (P > .05). Both groups had similar improvements to VAS, AOFAS, and SF-36 scores up to 12 months (P > .05). Both groups had significant 1-year improvements to physical functioning, physical limitations in usual role activities, pain, and social functioning domains, but the ACIC group additionally had significant improvements to general health, vitality, and mental health. Patients in the ACIC group were also more satisfied than the microfracture group at all time points. Patients with OLTs who underwent ACIC reported superior satisfaction and improvements to quality of life, although clinical outcomes were similar to those who underwent microfracture alone at 1 year.Level of Evidence: Level III: Cohort study.

The role of imaging in the diagnosis, staging, and management of the osteochondral lesions of the talus

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) represent an abnormality of the articular cartilage and sub-chondral bone. The abnormality is typically associated with trauma though the exact aetiology remains unknown. Multiple staging systems have been developed to classify the abnormality and management can vary from conservative treatment to different surgical options. Early diagnosis is essential for optimal outcome and all imaging modalities have a role to play in patient management. The aim of this article is to review the pathology, classification, multimodality imaging appearances of OLT, and how the imaging affects patient management.

Reporting of Morphology, Location, and Size in the Treatment of Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus in 11,785 Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Uniformity of reporting is a requisite to be able to compare results of clinical studies on the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT). The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency and quality of reporting of size, morphology, and location of OLTs.

DESIGN

A literature search was performed from 1996 to 2023 to identify clinical studies on surgical treatment of OLTs. Screening was performed by 2 reviewers, who subsequently graded the quality using the methodological index for non-randomized studies (MINORS). The primary outcome was the frequency and qualitative assessment of reporting of size, morphology, and location.

RESULTS

Of 3,074 articles, 262 articles were included. This comprised a total of 11,785 patients. Size was reported in 248 (95%) of the articles and was described with a measure for surface area in 83%, however, in 56%, definition of measurement is unknown. Intraclass coefficient (ICC) value for the reliability of size measurement was 0.94 for computed tomography (CT) scan and 0.87 for MRI scan. Morphology was reported in 172 (66%) of the articles and using a classification system in 23% of the studies. Location was reported in 220 (84%) of the studies.

CONCLUSION

No consensus was found on the reporting of morphology, with non-validated classification systems and different terminologies used. For location, reporting in 9 zones is underreported. Size was well reported and measurements are more reliable for CT compared with MRI. As these prognostic factors guide clinical decision-making, we advocate the development of a standardized and validated OLT classification to reach uniform reporting in literature.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review.

Second-Look Arthroscopy Shows Inferior Cartilage after Bone Marrow Stimulation Compared with Other Operative Techniques for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To compare cartilage quality after different surgical interventions for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT), evaluated by second-look arthroscopy. Secondary aims were to report concomitant diagnoses, and to correlate cartilage quality with clinical and radiological outcomes. This review hypothesizes that the cartilage repair after bone marrow stimulation (BMS) is inferior to the other available treatment options.

METHODS

PROSPERO ID: CRD42022311489. Studies were retrieved through PubMed, EMBASE (Ovid), and Cochrane Library. Studies were included if they reported cartilage quality after second-look investigation after surgical treatment of OLT. The primary outcome measure was the cartilage quality success and failure rates (%) per surgical intervention group. Correlations between the cartilage quality and clinical or radiological outcomes were calculated.

RESULTS

Twenty-nine studies were included, comprising 586 ankles that had undergone second-look arthroscopy on average 16 months after initial surgery. The success rate for BMS was 57% (95% confidence interval [CI] = 48%-65%), for fixation (FIX) 86% (95% CI = 70%-94%), for osteo(chondral) transplantation (OCT) 91% (95% CI = 80%-96%), for cartilage implementation techniques (CITs) 80% (95% CI = 69%-88%), and for retrograde drilling 100% (95% CI = 66%-100%). The success rate of BMS was significantly lower than FIX, OCT, and CIT (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences between other treatment groups. A moderate positive significant correlation between the Magnetic Resonance Observation of Cartilage Repair Tissue (MOCART) score and the International Cartilage Repair Society score (ICRS) was found (ρ = 0.51, P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Successful restoration of cartilage quality was found in the majority of surgically treated OLTs. However, BMS yields inferior cartilage quality compared with FIX, OCT, and CIT. Study Design. Systematic review and meta-analysis. Level of evidence. Level IV, systematic review and meta-analysis.

Multilayered biomimetic scaffolds for cartilage repair of the talus. A systematic review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present review was to analyze the available evidence in the literature on the clinical and radiological outcomes of multilayered biomimetic scaffolds in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs).

DESIGN

A systematic search was performed in three databases to identify clinical trials, where the multilayered biomimetic scaffolds were used for the treatment of OLTs. The PRISMA guidelines were followed. Qualitative analysis of the relevant data of the included studies was executed. The methodological quality of the analyzed studies was assessed with a modified Coleman Methodology Score (CMS).

RESULTS

A total of 10 studies with 87 patients were included in the analysis. Only three multilayered biomimetic scaffolds have been investigated in clinical trials for the treatment of OLTs. The worst clinical and radiological outcomes, as well as safety profile were observed for the TruFit scaffold (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA, USA), which had already been withdrawn from the market. The other two scaffolds (MaioRegen, Finceramica, Italy; Agili-C, Cartiheal, Israel) performed significantly better in the majority of the reviewed studies, especially in the clinical aspect. The radiological findings, the improvements of MOCART scores, the completeness of lesions' fill, and the structure of regenerated tissue were much more inconsistent.

CONCLUSIONS

Two of the multilayered biomimetic scaffolds demonstrated an adequate potential in the treatment of complex OLTs. However, limited studies availability and their low level of medical evidence request further high-level investigations before the clinical decision making for such scaffolds in the treatment of OLTs can be defined.

Talar Dome Osteochondral Lesions: Pre- and Postoperative Imaging

We suggest a similar approach to evaluating osteochondral lesions of the talar dome both pre- and postoperatively. This review addresses the etiology, natural history, and treatment of talar dome osteochondral lesions with an emphasis on imaging appearances. High-resolution magnetic resonance imaging, ideally combining a small field-of-view surface coil with ankle traction, optimizes visibility of most of the clinically relevant features both pre- and postoperatively.

Outcomes of bone marrow aspirate concentrate and matrix-induced chondrogenesis (BMIC) for treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus

BACKGROUND

To analyze the outcomes of Bone marrow aspirate concentrate and Matrix-Induced Chondrogenesis (BMIC) in Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus (OLTs).

METHODS

Patients with OLTs treated with BMIC from June 2013 to July 2020 were included. Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Foot Function Index (FFI), and Foot Ankle Outcome Score (FAOS) before treatment and at last follow-up were subjected to analysis.

RESULTS

Forty-five patients were included and mean follow-up was 39.1 months (range, 13-97 months). Mean lesion size and depth were 180.7 ± 110.4 mm² and 9.6 ± 3.7 mm, respectively. BMIC was performed without malleolar osteotomy in 36 patients (80%) and bone graft was performed in 42 (93.3%). VAS, FFI, and FAOS improved significantly. No complication occurred and no revision was required.

CONCLUSIONS

The BMIC procedure is feasible and should be considered a viable treatment option for OLTs associated with large subchondral bone defects.

A prospective, single-center study following operative treatment for osteochondral lesions of the talus

BACKGROUND

(1) To evaluate patient-reported outcomes and revision surgeries after various operative interventions for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) in a prospective single center series over 10 years, and (2) to identify predicting factors related to subjective ankle status and quality of life pre- and postoperatively.

METHODS

Ninety-nine patients underwent operative treatment due to primary or recurrent OLT, with an average follow up 3.5 (1.8) years. Treatment outcome was followed clinically (FAOS, EQ-5D, Tegner activity scale) and by pursuing any serious adverse events or graft failures.

RESULTS

There were 80 responding patients (81%) for the study. The mean lesion size was 2.0 (1.1) cm². All FAOS values increased from preoperative to final follow-up values (Symptoms 60-68, Pain 58-69, ADL 71-80, Sport 36-54, QoL 30-45). EQ-5D increased from 0.49 to 0.62, while Tegner activity scale change from 3.2 to 3.4. There were 19 (24%) serious adverse events recorded; 13 (16%) of them were graft-related. Graft survival rates were 100% at 1 year, 94% (males)/93% (females) at 2 years, and 77% (males)/47% (females) at 5 years. Female gender, higher BMI, and higher Kellgren-Lawrence ankle OA score were negative predictors for preoperative patient-reported ankle joint status. The foremost improvement after operative intervention was observed in patients with large osteochondral lesions without postoperative adverse events.

CONCLUSION

Various operative interventions for OLT significantly improved patients' ankle status and quality of life. High graft survival rates were demonstrated over first two years, but notable decline was confirmed thereafter, especially in female patients.

Short-term outcomes following dehydrated micronized allogenic cartilage versus isolated microfracture for treatment of medial talar osteochondral lesions

BACKGROUND

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) have been traditionally treated with bone marrow stimulation techniques such as microfracture. However, conventional microfracture results in a biomechanically weaker repair tissue of predominantly type I collagen. Acellular micronized cartilage matrix (MCM) serves as a bioactive scaffold to restore hyaline cartilage. The purpose was to compare short-term outcomes after microfracture with and without augmentation with MCM for medial-sided OLTs.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed between 2010-2019 for medial-sided OLTs undergoing treatment with either microfracture augmented with MCM or isolated microfracture. The MCM was hydrated with either bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) or platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) pain scores, Foot and Ankle Activity Measure (FAAM) scores, return-to-daily activities, and return-to-sport.

RESULTS

48 patients (14 MCM with PRP, 6 MCM with BMAC; 28 isolated microfracture) with average age 35.5 years (range: 13.8-67.2 years) and mean follow-up 4.0 ± 3.4 years (range,.13-10.7) were included. There was no difference in average lesion size between MCM and microfracture groups (64.0 ± 49.4 mm² versus 57.3 ± 44.2 mm², P = .63) and a trend toward larger lesion size for BMAC compared to PRP (106.5 ± 59.2 versus 45.9 ± 32.1 mm², P = .056). There was no difference in time to return-to-activity (83.5 ± 18.8 versus 87.3 ± 49.1 days) or return-to-sports (151.9 ± 62.2 versus 165 ± 99.2 days) with MCM versus isolated microfracture. However, the MCM group had a significantly greater improvement in VAS pain score at final follow-up (4.9 ± 2.2 versus 2.7 ± 2.6, P = .0032) and significantly higher post-operative FAAM-Activities of Daily Living subscale scores (97.2 ± 8.2 versus 79.7 ± 32.8, P = .033).

CONCLUSIONS

Augmenting microfracture with MCM hydrated with PRP or BMAC may result in beneficial changes in pain scores and activities of daily living, but similar return-to-activities and return-to-sport times compared to microfracture alone in management of medial OLT.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

Arthroscopic debridement of osteochondral lesions of the talus: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Arthroscopic debridement (AD) for the osteochondral lesions of the talar dome (OLT) was widely documented in the nineties with satisfactory results. However, in modern treatment algorithms, its role is not described. The present systematic review aims to evaluate the current evidence on the clinical outcomes of AD in the management of OLT.

METHODS

Two independent reviewers searched PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Virtual Health Library databases evaluating the clinical outcomes of AD of OLT with a minimum 6-month follow-up. The following terms "talus", "chondral", "cartilage", "injury", "lesion", "delamination", "damage", "excision", "curettage", "debridement", "chondrectomy", "chondroplasty", were used alone and in combination with Boolean operators AND and OR. Studies in which surgical technique was not described, an additional procedure was performed after debridement, and/or outcomes were not reported separately when more than one technique was implemented were excluded. The modified Coleman methodology score (mCMS) was used to evaluate the methodological quality of the included studies. A narrative analysis was conducted. Publication bias was assessed using the ROBIS tool.

RESULTS

AD showed satisfactory short and medium-term outcomes for the primary treatment of OLT irrespectively of size and depth. However, the heterogeneity of the included studies and the level of available evidence hinders its recommendation.

CONCLUSIONS

There is a paucity of evidence evaluating AD alone for OLT treatment in the last two decades. Bone-marrow stimulation techniques remain the first-line surgical strategy for OLT treatment without proven superiority. Adopting AD for OLT treatment instead of MF could represent a paradigm breakthrough in clinical practice given its many potential advantages while preserving the subchondral plate.

Osteochondral lesions of the talar dome: an up-to-date approach to multimodality imaging and surgical techniques

Osteochondral lesions (OCLs) of the talar dome consist of a multifactorial pathology of the articular cartilage and subchondral bone and can result in persistent ankle pain and osteoarthritis (OA). Along with a physical examination and clinical history, an imaging evaluation plays a pivotal role in the diagnosis of these lesions and is fundamental for making treatment decisions and determining prognosis by providing information regarding the size, location, and cartilage and subchondral bone statuses as well as associated lesions and degenerative changes. Multiple surgical techniques for OCLs of the talar dome have been developed in recent decades, including cartilage repair, regeneration, and replacement strategies, and radiologists should be acquainted with their specific expected and abnormal postoperative imaging findings to better monitor the results and predict poor outcomes. The present article proposes a thorough review of the ankle joint anatomy and biomechanics, physiopathology, diagnosis, and treatment of OCLs of the talar dome, highlighting the radiological approach and imaging findings in both pre- and postoperative scenarios.

The management of talar osteochondral lesions - Current concepts

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) are a common complication following trauma, involving both the articular cartilage and the underlying subchondral bone, with variable aetiologies and often presenting with non-specific symptoms. Diagnosis of OLTs requires a combination of clinical assessment and imaging and despite many different treatment options, there is no generalised consensus regarding which option is the most effective. Left untreated, OLTs risk progressing to osteoarthritis. Acute non-displaced OLTs can be treated non-operatively. However, OLTs refractory to non-surgical care for three to six months may be suitable for surgical care. In these cases, conservative treatments are often unsuccessful, particularly for larger and more severe defects and so the majority require surgical intervention. Although bone marrow stimulation techniques remain the "gold standard" for lesions <150 mm2, there still requires a need for better long term clinical data and cost-benefit analyses compared with other treatment options. Biological attempts at either regenerating or replacing the articular cartilage are however demonstrating some promising results, but each with their own advantages and disadvantages. In this review, we summarise the clinical management of OLTs and present the current concepts of different treatment regimes.

Osteochondritis Dissecans: Current Understanding of Epidemiology, Etiology, Management, and Outcomes

➤

Osteochondritis dissecans occurs most frequently in the active pediatric and young adult populations, commonly affecting the knee, elbow, or ankle, and may lead to premature osteoarthritis.

➤

While generally considered an idiopathic phenomenon, various etiopathogenetic theories are being investigated, including local ischemia, aberrant endochondral ossification of the secondary subarticular physis, repetitive microtrauma, and genetic predisposition.

➤

Diagnosis is based on the history, physical examination, radiography, and advanced imaging, with elbow ultrasonography and novel magnetic resonance imaging protocols potentially enabling early detection and in-depth staging.

➤

Treatment largely depends on skeletal maturity and lesion stability, defined by the presence or absence of articular cartilage fracture and subchondral bone separation, as determined by imaging and arthroscopy, and is typically nonoperative for stable lesions in skeletally immature patients and operative for those who have had failure of conservative management or have unstable lesions.

➤

Clinical practice guidelines have been limited by a paucity of high-level evidence, but a multicenter effort is ongoing to develop accurate and reliable classification systems and multimodal decision-making algorithms with prognostic value.

Osteochondral Lesions of the Distal Tibial Plafond: A Systematic Review of Lesion Locations and Treatment Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Osteochondral lesions of the tibial plafond (OLTPs) remain less common than osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs), but recognition of the condition has increased.

PURPOSE

To systematically evaluate the literature on lesion locations and treatment outcomes of OLTPs, whether in isolation or in combination with OLTs.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A search was performed using the PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL databases for studies on lesion locations or with imaging or treatment outcomes of OLTPs. Case reports and reports based on expert opinion were excluded. Lesion locations as well as outcome measure results were aggregated. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies score was used to assess methodological quality when applicable.

RESULTS

Included in this review were 10 articles, all published in 2000 or later. Most studies were evidence level 4, and the mean Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies score was 8.6 (range, 8-10). Overall, 174 confirmed OLTP cases were identified, and the mean patient age was 38.8 years. Of the 157 lesions with confirmed locations, the most common was central-medial (32/157; 20.4%). Of 6 studies on treatment outcomes, all but 1 evaluated bone marrow stimulation techniques. Microfracture of small lesions (<150 mm2) was the most common treatment utilized. Imaging and functional outcomes appeared favorable after treatment. The data did not support differences in outcomes between isolated OLTPs and OLTPs with coexisting OLTs.

CONCLUSION

Osteochondral lesions of the distal tibia most commonly occurred at the central-medial tibial plafond. Microfracture of small lesions was the most common treatment utilized, and clinical and magnetic resonance imaging results were favorable, although data were heterogeneous. Areas for future research include the following: the effect of patient factors and additional pathologies on outcomes; larger or deeper lesion treatment; more direct comparisons of outcomes between kissing or coexisting lesions and isolated lesions; and head-to-head comparison of treatments, such as microfracture, bone marrow-derived cell transplantation, and osteochondral autografts/allografts.

Osteochondral defects of the talus: radiological appearance and surgical candidate profiling - A retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Osteochondral defects of the talus (OCD) are a well-established pathology within the ankle. They are most commonly associated with ankle trauma and whilst many are asymptomatic, they can have a significant negative impact on the patient, most notably with regards pain and mobility. Treatment of these lesions remains variable across the diverse cohort of these patients.

AIMS

Evaluating the incidence of talus OCDs. Evaluating anatomic and morphologic data of the lesions against previous studies. Establishing if there was there any associated ligamentous injury. Determining the cohort of patients who were considered/underwent surgical intervention.

METHODS

A retrospective review was performed on patients presenting to a single Scottish Hospital with Talar OCDs between 2012-2016. Data collected included radiological appearance of the lesions (location and size), clinical history, associated ligament injury, treatment given and subsequent outcome. Categorical variables were presented as count and percentage while non-parametric variables were presented as median and interquartile range.

RESULTS

90 new cases that matched our inclusion criteria were identified. Using the Raikin classification, the majority of injuries are in the posteromedial (26%), centrolateral (21%), and centromedial (18%) segments of the talus. Of note, no lesions were identified in the posterocentral segment. 46% of patients had an associated ligamentous injury, either in the form of a sprain or tear. Most commonly the injury involved both ATFL and CFL (82%). 70% of patients that underwent surgery had radiological evidence of ligamentous injury. No statistically significant difference was identified between the management option and the involved segment according to Orr/Raikin classifications.

CONCLUSION

Talus osteochondral defects are a pathology which is more common than originally thought and their treatment remain a controversial topic. Little is known about the physical history of the condition as most cases are asymptomatic, thus poorly documented by definition. There is a clear opportunity and need for further research into developing evidence-based guidelines for their management. This study tried to correlate the management of OCDs with epidemiological and radiological data.

Early to medium term outcomes of osteochondral lesions of the talus treated by autologous matrix induced chondrogenesis (AMIC)

BACKGROUND

The primary aim of the study is to evaluate the functional outcome following AMIC procedure in patients with osteochondral injury of the talus. The secondary aim is to evaluate if size of the lesion and patient's age influence outcome.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a retrospective study of 25 patients who underwent AMIC procedure of the talus treated by a single surgeon. Functional outcomes were evaluated using pre and post operative AOFAS and VAS scores.

RESULTS

The mean lesion size was 1.74 cms with 88% of lesions in the study more than 1.4 cms. There was a significant improvement in AOFAS score with mean improvement of 49.40 (p < 0.05) and VAS score of 5.36 (p < 0.05). We could not find any correlation between either age or lesion size with functional outcome for AMIC procedure.

CONCLUSION

AMIC procedure seems to be a reliable treatment method for larger diameter osteochondral lesions of the talus up to 2.5 cms in diameter.

Detection of early cartilage degeneration in the tibiotalar joint using 3 T gagCEST imaging: a feasibility study

OBJECTIVE

To establish and optimize a stable 3 Tesla (T) glycosaminoglycan chemical exchange saturation transfer (gagCEST) imaging protocol for assessing the articular cartilage of the tibiotalar joint in healthy volunteers and patients after a sustained injury to the ankle.

METHODS

Using Bloch-McConnell simulations, we optimized the sequence protocol for a 3 T MRI scanner for maximum gagCEST effect size within a clinically feasible time frame of less than 07:30 min. This protocol was then used to analyze the gagCEST effect of the articular cartilage of the tibiotalar joint of 17 healthy volunteers and five patients with osteochondral lesions of the talus following ankle trauma. Reproducibility was tested with the intraclass correlation coefficient.

RESULTS

The mean magnetization transfer ratio asymmetry (MTR_asym), i.e., the gagCEST effect size, was significantly lower in patients than in healthy volunteers (0.34 ± 1.9% vs. 1.49 ± 0.11%; p < 0.001 [linear mixed model]). Intra- and inter-rater reproducibility was excellent with an average measure intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of 0.97 and a single measure ICC of 0.91 (p < 0.01).

DISCUSSION

In this feasibility study, pre-morphological tibiotalar joint cartilage damage was quantitatively assessable on the basis of the optimized 3 T gagCEST imaging protocol that allowed stable quantification gagCEST effect sizes across a wide range of health and disease in clinically feasible acquisition times.

Validation of 9-Grid Scheme for Localizing Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

BACKGROUND

A 9-grid scheme has been integrated into the foot and ankle literature to help clinicians and researchers localize osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs). We hypothesized that fellowship-trained orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons would have a high rate of intra/inter-observer reliability when localizing OLTs, therefore validating the scheme.

METHODS

We queried our institution's foot and ankle radiographic database for magnetic resonance images with OLTs. Each MRI was reviewed by the senior author, and 2 key images (widest OLT diameter) from each tangential view were copied and combined onto one slide. Fifty consecutive deidentified images of ankles were then sent to 4 practicing fellowship-trained foot and ankle surgeons. Each was asked to identify which zone the OLT was localized within. A radiologist's report served as the control. Statistical analyses were performed using Cohen and Fleiss kappa tests.

RESULTS

The reviewers demonstrated majority consensus on 45/50 images with substantial agreement for zones 4 and 6. The interobserver reliability was moderate with a κ = 0.55. The mean intraobserver reliability was substantial, with a κ = 0.79. A musculoskeletal radiologist determined there were 3 lesions in zone 7, 18 lesions in zone 4, and 29 lesions in zone 6.

CONCLUSION

This study is the first to critically evaluate the 9-grid scheme and its reliability among orthopedic foot and ankle surgeons. Our study found that the 9-grid scheme is an accurate method of localization for OLTs with high intra- and moderate interobserver reliability between surgeons.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, retrospective diagnostic study.

Osteochondral autograft transfer (mosaicplasty) for treatment of patients with osteochondral lesions of talus

PURPOSE

Osteochondral lesion of talus (OLT) is one of the common causes of ankle pain. This disorder is common in young athletes after ankle injury. There are various therapeutic options. One of the options is mosaic plasticizer. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of mosaicplasty on improvement of symptoms of patients with osteochondral lesions of talus.

METHODS

Nineteen patients with osteochondral lesions of talus participated in this study, who were treated with mosaicplasty. Before and after treatment, pain (visual analogue scale), function (American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society), range of motion and radiographic signs were evaluated.

RESULTS

The results of this study showed that mosaicplasty could significantly reduce pain, increase function and improve radiographic symptoms. The range of motion increased after treatment, which was not significant.

CONCLUSION

We can confirm the effect of mosaicplasty on the improvement of patients with osteochondral lesions of the ankle, suggesting it as a treatment option.

Operative Approaches to Ankle and Hindfoot Arthroscopy

The role of arthroscopy in the management of ankle and hindfoot pathology management has increased greatly in recent years with the potential for lower complication rates, faster recovery, improved access, and improved outcomes when compared to open techniques. Procedural variations exist as techniques aim to optimize lesion access, decrease operative time, and improve patient safety. Our goal is to summarize the described approaches and patient positionings common in minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery for anterior, lateral, and posterior ankle pathologies. A survey of pathology organized by arthroscopic approach and a review of recent advances in concomitant lesion management may be useful when planning arthroscopic foot and ankle surgery.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level V, expert opinion.