This booklet published in cooperation with ISAKOS is a concise up-to-date guide and
reference on the treatment of cartilage lesions of the ankle that will be of practical clinical
value for specialists in sports medicine and sports traumatology. Different techniques and the
management of various lesions are described step by step guiding the practitioner through the
entire spectrum of care from evaluation of the injury to successful recovery. Chondral and
osteochondral lesions of the talus can present as a consequence of repetitive ankle injuries
causing chronic pain recurrent swelling and weakness and stiffness of the ankle joint. An
accurate early diagnosis is required using clinical evaluation imaging techniques and
arthroscopy of the ankle. In acute and non-displaced chondral and osteochondral lesions
conservative treatment is the mainstay. Surgery is recommended for unstable and persistent
lesions and consists in several techniques focused on regeneration of the cartilage. Returning
to play is possible after testing balance and proprioception strength range of motion and
agility.
