talar dome lesion
Pronunciation: TAY-lar dome LEE-zhun
Damage to the cartilage surface of the talus bone in the ankle, often resulting from repetitive microtrauma in athletes.
Full Definition
A talar dome lesion refers to damage to the articular cartilage covering the superior surface of the talus bone within the ankle joint. These lesions are particularly common in athletes who participate in sports involving repetitive ankle dorsiflexion and plantarflexion, such as soccer, basketball, and gymnastics. The condition may present as osteochondral defects, cartilage softening, or frank cartilage loss. Diagnosis typically requires advanced imaging such as MRI or CT arthrography, as plain radiographs may appear normal in early stages. Treatment ranges from conservative management to arthroscopic debridement or osteochondral autograft transfer depending on lesion size and symptoms.
Usage
Usage note: Often missed on initial evaluation; requires high index of suspicion in athletes with persistent ankle pain.
In Context
- "MRI revealed a grade IV talar dome lesion with subchondral cyst formation." — Radiology report
- "The patient's persistent ankle pain following multiple sprains warranted evaluation for talar dome lesion." — Clinical assessment