Lesions of the trochlea tali. Osteochondral fractures and osteochondritis dissecans of the trochlea tali

Abstract

Osteochondral fracture of the trochlea tali, which can result in osteochondritis dissecans of this trochlea, is often not recognized as such and therefore not adequately treated. The nonrecognition is mainly due to the fact that the fracture can either remain asymptomatic or produce symptoms of inversion-distortion; to a lesser degree it is also due to the fact that the lesion is not identified in the radiograph. In view of these facts it would seem necessary in all cases of distorsion to make an X-ray examination of the ankle, ascertaining that the trochlea tali is adequately visualized. Unless the symptoms abate within a week, radiological examination should be repeated. The same applies to patients whose initial recovery is followed by a relapse of symptoms. Surgical treatment of choice for osteochondral fractures. The symptomatology and therapeutic results in 46 osteochondral fractures studied were in agreement with data from the literature. Therapeutic results can be improved by earlier diagnosis and more adequate treatment of the condition.