Accuracy of arthroscopic assessment of anterior ankle cartilage lesions

Abstract

Purpose: The accuracy of arthroscopic evaluation of the size of an osteochondral lesion in the ankle joint was assessed in 10 cadaver feet.

Materials and methods: A rectangular osteochondral defect was created in the anterior part of the talus. A 5 mm 30 degrees arthroscope was utilized for evaluation of the size of the lesion from an anterior midline portal under carbon dioxide.

Results: The size of the defect averaged 77.2 +/- 31 mm2 (24-10(8) mm2). The difference between area of the defect and measurement of three independent investigators averaged 52%, 49% and 49%, respectively.

Conclusion: The assessment of the size of an osteochondral lesion in the ankle joint based on arthroscopy implicates over- and underestimation of the defect.