Procedure
Arthroscopic Microfracture
For Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus
What It Involves
Arthroscopic debridement and microfracture is a minor, minimally invasive keyhole procedure for smaller osteochondral lesions of the talus. The damaged cartilage is debrided back to stable, healthy edges, and small holes are made in the underlying bone to stimulate bleeding and the formation of a fibrocartilage repair tissue over the defect.
It is performed through small arthroscopic portals under general or regional anaesthesia, typically taking 30–45 minutes, and is usually done as day surgery. Unlike OATS, there is no donor site, as no tissue is harvested.
Recovery Timeline
Everyone heals at a different rate — this timeline is a guide.
Weeks 1–2
Non-weight-bearing in a boot, with the foot elevated to control swelling. The wound is checked and sutures removed at 2 weeks.
Weeks 2–6
Weight-bearing as tolerated in the boot, with physiotherapy commencing to restore range of motion and strength.
Weeks 6 onwards
Transition out of the boot into regular footwear, with physiotherapy continuing for gait and strength. Low-impact activity can generally resume from around 6–8 weeks.
3 months
Running and higher-impact sport are introduced gradually from this point, guided by symptoms and physiotherapy progress. A final review and discharge takes place once you've returned to full activity.