Open reconstruction with autologous spongiosa grafts and matrix-induced chondrogenesis for osteochondral lesions of the talus can be performed without medial malleolar osteotomy

Purpose To evaluate complication rates and postoperative outcomes in patients with osteochondral lesions of the talus who underwent an autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis (AMIC) procedure with autologous spongiosa grafting without malleolar osteotomy. Methods A total of 23 patients with a mean age of 35.6 +/- 13.9 years were included in this study. The mean follow-up was 33.5 +/- 10.4 months (range 24-52.9 months). The clinical outcomes were evaluated using the visual analog scale (VAS) and the Foot Function Index (FFI). Postoperatively, lesion healing was assessed using the magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue (MOCART) protocol. Results There were no intraoperative or perioperative complications. In one patient, arthroscopic arthrolysis was performed due to painful arthrofibrosis. The mean VAS significantly decreased from 7.6 +/- 1.1 (range 4.2-9.3) to 1.4 +/- 2.2 (range 0-7.4) (P < 0.001). The mean FFI significantly improved from 46.8 +/- 14.3 (range 24.3-80.8) to 15.9 +/- 11.4 (range 10.0-51.7) (P < 0.001). The mean MOCART score at 1-year follow-up was 74.1 +/- 12.4 (range 50-95). Both preoperative and postoperative pains were significantly higher for smokers when compared to non-smokers. Conclusions The results of the present study study indicate that AMIC procedure can be performed through the anterolateral and anteromedial arthrotomy without malleolar osteotomy. Thus, the possible complications associated with malleolar osteotomy can be avoided. The AMIC procedure without a malleolar osteotomy can be considered a safe and reliable procedure in patients with osteochondral lesions localized anterior to the midline in the sagittal plane.