Osteochondral Talar Fracture Treated with Arthroscopic Reduction and Internal Fixation: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation (ARIF) is becoming a popular technique for the management of articular fractures. Case report: A 41 year old is admitted following an RTA with a transverse fracture of the left fibula and an avulsed TCF of the lateral cortex of the talus. Management: Arthroscopic intervention from the anterior portals and ORIF with LC-DCP was selected. There was a Transchondral fracture (TCF) and 4 fragments measuring from 2-5 mm. All were removed. A larger TCF fragment was found to be positioned posteriorly to the portals and inaccessible so a posterior portal was opened so that the fragment could be dislodged, grasped and removed from the anterior portal. The size of this fragment was 9×11 mm. An uneventful ORIF of the fibular fracture was performed with a 7 hole LC-DCP with combined locking and normal holes. Discussion: Arthroscopic reduction and internal fixation may cost more initially but in the long-term it may result in reduced costs mainly associated with chronic conditions.