Foot & ankle
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A retrospective study of 22 ankles in 22 patients with osteochondral talar dome lesions between 1975 and 1983 has indicated that surgical treatment yields superior results to conservative therapy. Thirteen male and 9 female patients, ages 9 to 72 years, average age 28 years, showed 10 medical lesions (Berndt and Harty classification (stage I (one); stage II/III (nine)) and 12 lateral lesions (stage II/III (5), stage IV (7)). Examination follow-up on 19 patients (86%) has averaged 24 months. ⋯ Nineteen of the 22 patients had surgical therapy with 79% excellent or good, 21% fair, and no poor results. Five of the eight patients who elected prolonged conservative therapy finally had surgery. Of the three remaining patients conservatively treated, there were two fair results and one poor result.