do focal chondral lesions influence the results of ligament reconstruction?
GROUND: There are few studies that have assessed the influence of focal chondral lesions on the results of ligament reconstruction for chronic lateral ankle instability. HYPOTHESIS: Focal chondral lesions do not influence the results of ligament reconstruction. STUDY DESIGN: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. METHODS: Arthroscopic examination of the ankle was performed on 30 consecutive patients immediately before ligament reconstruction using the palmaris longus tendon. Clinical assessment was performed using the Karlsson scoring scale. A radiologic assessment was performed on stress radiographs of the ankle. Preoperative anteroposterior and lateral weightbearing radiographs of the ankle did not show any joint space narrowing in any ankle. The mean duration of follow-up was 38 months. RESULTS: On arthroscopy, focal chondral lesions were found in 19 ankles (63%). Chondral lesions were located on the medial side of the tibial plafond in 13 ankles (43%), on the lateral side in 2 ankles (
