Accuracy of Arthroscopic Assessment of Anterior Ankle Cartilage Lesions

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 degrees 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 mm2 (24-10(8) mm2). 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.