The partial talus replacement (PTR) – An alternative treatment for severe osteochondral lesions of the talus utilizing a custom 3D printed talar hemiarthroplasty implant: A case report and technique guide

Abstract

Large osteochondral lesions of the talus can lead to severe pain and disability. Various surgical interventions have been described in published literature. Customized implants developed through additive manufacturing are increasing in popularity with favorable results within foot and ankle surgery. This case study reports a 52-year-old male who has a history of failed prior surgical interventions with severe left ankle pain associated with a large osteochondral lesion of the talus. The patient underwent resection of the diseased bone with the aid of patient specific instrumentation followed by implantation of a custom 3D printed partial talus implant to resurface the talar dome. At a final follow up of 24 months, the patient continued to experience significant improvement in functional outcomes without radiographic evidence of implant complications.