Treatment of adolescent talar osteochondral defect with a distal tibial metaphyseal autograft: A case study

Abstract

Talar osteochondral defects (OCD) are debilitating lesions that can involve both the articular cartilage and underlying bone of the talus, often resulting from trauma or repetitive stress. These defects can cause significant pain, joint instability and limited mobility. This case report discusses the successful surgical treatment of an adolescent talar OCD using a distal tibial metaphyseal autograft through a medial malleolar osteotomy in a young patient with closed growth plates. Postoperatively, the patient exhibited full consolidation of the defect, complete resolution of pain, and regained full range of motion in the ankle joint, with a return to unrestricted physical activity. At the three-year post-operative visit, the patient remained asymptomatic, maintained radiographic consolidation of both the tibia and talus, had no limitations in activity and was able to make a full return to sports at six months.