Fixation of a posteromedial osteochondral lesion of the talus using a three-portal posterior arthroscopic technique.

Abstract

Fixation of a large osteochondral fragment on the posteromedial talus can be performed using medial malleolar osteotomy or an arthroscopic technique with a transmalleolar portal. However, osteotomy can be associated with some morbidity, such as longstanding pain and tenderness at the osteotomy site. Also, it requires longer immobilization. However, the transmalleolar portal damages the tibial articular cartilage, which can later cause pain. In young patients, it can injure the epiphyseal plate. We describe a posterior arthroscopic technique using 3 posterior portals that allow access to a posteromedial osteochondral lesion of the talus and fixation of the osteochondral fragment without malleolar osteotomy or transmalleolar drilling.