Novel 3D printed partial talar surface prosthesis for osteochondral lesions of the talar dome: A 2-year case report

Surgical treatment of osteochondral lesions of the talar dome (OLTD), for lesions larger than 15 mm2, surgical treatment remains challenging. To solve these problems, we presented a 3D-printed partial talar surface replacement (PTSR) technique for treating OLTD with severe lesions.

A 23-year-old male patient with OLTD experienced persistent pain for more than a year (Berndt and Harty classification V). Due to the pain, the patient was not allowed to walk long distances or engage in any physical activities.

Preoperative clinical examination and imaging (computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging) confirmed the diagnosis of OLTD and Berndt and Harty classification V.

The patient underwent a 3D-printed PTSR surgical procedure.

Follow-up at 2 years after surgery showed good ankle function, with no pain or complications. The Visual Analog Scale score decreased from 5 to 1. The American Orthopedic Foot & Ankle Society scores improved from 65 to 90.

3D-printed PTSR is a new surgical method for OLTD with a larger damage area that can provide satisfactory outcomes. Definitive and convincing conclusions are difficult to draw owing to the limited number of cases in this study. Another limitation is the follow-up period, which was 2 years. In addition, medium- and long-term follow-up is required. For this patient, we planned an annual follow-up, which included physical evaluation and radiography. In the future, a prospective randomized controlled study should be conducted to manage the clinical surgical treatment of OLTDs, including metal partial replacements.