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° 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 mm ² (24–108 mm ² ). 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.