Traumatic Osteochondral Injury of the Talus: Advanced Imaging, Diagnosis, and Management in Modern Musculoskeletal Radiology
Abstract Traumatic osteochondral injury (TOI) of the talus represents a clinically significant yet frequently underdiagnosed condition, particularly in young, active individuals presenting with persistent ankle pain following inversion injuries. Advances in imaging—especially high-resolution magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)—have substantially improved diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. This column provides a comprehensive, evidence-based review of traumatic osteochondral injury, integrating pathophysiology, epidemiology, clinical presentation, imaging findings, differential diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. The discussion is anchored in a real-world case study and incorporates detailed radiologic interpretation, quiz-based learning, and contemporary literature. I. Introduction Traumatic osteochondral injury of the talus is a condition involving damage to the articular cartilage and underlying subchondral bone, most commonly following ankle inversion ...