New classification of osteochondral lesions of the talus in adults

Abstract

Osteochondral lesions (OCL) of the ankle in adults are frequent lesions that mainly affect the cartilage and the subchondral bone, are relatively common, and have varied etiologies. However, in 50% of patients, these lesions may occur concomitantly with chronic instability of the ankle associated with lower limb deformities, acute sprains of the ankle, or fractures. We propose a classification into four types of lesions (traumatic, non-traumatic, with lateral instability of the ankle, and with mechanical axis defects), focusing not only on the diagnosis and treatment of OCL but also on associated injuries, such as instability and/or supramalleolar and hindfoot deformities. Level of Evidence V; Therapeutic Studies; Expert Opinion.