Question
Dr Katz,
I suffered a lateral talar dome fracture 2 years ago while hiking.  I've tried conservative treatment, but am now considering an OATS procedure.  I have two questions - Without surgery will this injury worsen over time?  The second question is a little different.  Since the injury I have experienced frequent hot/cold sensations on the outside of my ankle.  My doctor says I may have stretched a nerve.  Will this eventually go away?

Thanks!

Answer
Hi Abby,

My experience has been that talar dome injuries will worsen over time.  The ankle joint may develop progressive arthritis.

The OATS procedure is done more commonly on knees and has mixed success, however it is certainly a good option as the cartilage defect will be replaced with hyaline cartilage which is the original type of ankle joint cartilage.

The nerve injury does not always resolve.  In my practice, I see many patients with nerve injuries especially after ankle sprains.  I will typically treat them with Cryosurgery to help them get pain relief.  So there are ways to get relief.  See my website below.

Good luck and I hope all goes well.

Sincerely,

Marc Katz, DPM
Tampa, FL
Advanced Podiatry
www.thetampapodiatrist.com
www.tampacryosurgery.com
www.fix-my-foot.com

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