Arthroscopic debridement and microfracture for bilateral osteochondral lesions on the lateral process of the talus involving the subtalar joint: A case report

Abstract

Rationale: Osteochondral lesions on the lateral process of the talus involving the subtalar joint are rare; the optimal surgical treatment remains to be clarified as there are few reports. Additionally, bilateral cases are extremely rare. Therefore, the clinical outcomes of the surgical treatment for bilateral osteochondral lesions on the lateral process of the talus involving the subtalar joint have not been fully elucidated. Patient concerns: A 16-year-old boy who played soccer presented to our hospital with bilateral hindfoot pain. The symptoms persisted even after 3 months of conservative treatment. The patient and family requested surgical treatment to relieve the symptoms. Diagnoses: The patient was diagnosed with bilateral osteochondral lesions on the lateral process of the talus, involving the subtalar joint based on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging findings. Interventions: Arthroscopic debridement and microfracture were performed bilaterally. Outcomes: Postoperative computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of both feet revealed remodeling of the subchondral bone. The patient returned to play at the pre-injury level with no pain. Lessons: This report describes a case of bilateral osteochondral lesions on the lateral process of the talus, involving the subtalar joint. Arthroscopic debridement and microfracture were effective in relieving symptoms and the subchondral bone remodeling. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of arthroscopic treatment of osteochondral lesions of the lateral process of the talus involving the subtalar joint.