Initial Outcomes of 3-Dimensional Imaging-Based Computer-Assisted Retrograde Drilling of Talar Osteochondral Lesions

Abstract

Background In operative treatment of Berndt and Harty stage 1 and stage 2 osteochondral lesions of the talus, the goal is revascularization. The use of computer-assisted guided retrograde drilling of osteochondral lesions has been described as a new technique with promising results. Purpose This study reports the follow-up assessment of patients treated with Iso-C-3D-navigated retrograde drilling. Its aim was to establish whether the greater precision of computer-assisted drilling results in satisfactory clinical outcomes. Study Design Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods Patients who underwent navigated Iso-C-3D-based retrograde drilling between June 1, 2003, and July 31, 2005, were included in the follow-up study. Clinical outcomes were measured using (1) the Ankle-Hindfoot Scale of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society and (2) the Visual Analogue Scale—Foot and Ankle. Radiological outcomes were assessed via radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging. Surgeon satisfaction was assessed using a simple 0 to 10 rating scheme for feasibility, accuracy, and clinical benefit. Results Average follow-up time was 25 months (range, 20-34). Twenty patients satisfied the inclusion criteria: 12 men and 8 women; mean age, 35 years (range, 19-58). One patient was excluded because he required a cartilage restoration procedure. All scores improved at the time of follow-up—Ankle-Hindfoot Scale, from 76 to 90 (P < .001); Visual Analogue Scale—Foot and Ankle, from 79 to 92 (P < .001). The average ratings of the operating surgeons (n = 3) were as follows: feasibility 9.0 (range, 7.3-10.0); accuracy, 8.5 (range, 5.8-10.0); and clinical benefit, 8.5 (5.7-10.0). At follow-up, magnetic resonance imaging revealed an improvement of the Hepple score in 80% of patients. Conclusion Arthroscopic treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talus is well established. A retrograde approach does not breach the overlying intact talar cartilage. The results of this follow-up study of 3-dimensional computer navigated drilling are promising.