Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus

Course Overview

Osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLT) represent a common yet frequently underdiagnosed cause of persistent ankle pain following inversion injuries. These lesions involve injury to the talar articular cartilage and the underlying subchondral bone, with potential progression to instability, cyst formation, and degenerative joint disease. Understanding lesion morphology, stability, vascular considerations, and evidence-based management algorithms is essential for optimal outcomes.

Learning Objectives

Differentiate between medial and lateral osteochondral lesions of the talus with respect to etiology, anatomic location, morphology, mechanism of injury, and healing potential

Apply appropriate classification systems to stage osteochondral lesions and utilize diagnostic imaging modalities (radiographs, CT, MRI, bone scan) to assess lesion size, stability, and treatment planning

Formulate evidence-based treatment plans for osteochondral lesions based on lesion size, cartilage cap integrity, and stability

Components

This course provides for 0.45 CME

Estimated time to complete the activity - The program will take approximately 0.45 hours to complete

The course was originally released in 2026

There is a post assessment quiz and a survey at the end of the event. A score of 76% or better is required to pass the course


			Course Staff

About the Speaker

Kenneth S. “Buck” Smith, MD

Dr. Kenneth S. "Buck" Smith is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon who is fellowship-trained in foot and ankle conditions. He treats all orthopedic ailments and provides minimally invasive treatments, total joint replacements, and joint arthroscopy. He also specializes in trauma care. Over the course of his career, Dr. Smith has cared for professional athletes on teams such as the Colorado Rockies, the Denver Broncos, and the Denver Nuggets, as well as athletes at the University of Colorado. In his spare time, Dr. Smith enjoys hunting, fishing, playing basketball and softball, and brewing his own beer.

Compliance Statement

In accordance with the Council on Podiatric Medical Education's Standards and Requirements for Accreditation of Providers of Continuing Education in Podiatric Medicine, any relevant financial relationships with commercial interests of faculty, planning committee, or any others who have influence over the content of this educational activity must be disclosed to program participants. Dr. Smith is a consultant for Conmed, Stryker, and Arthrex. None of the planning committee have any commercial interests to disclose. No commercial interest provided financial support for this educational activity. CME Online is accredited by the Council on Podiatric Medical Education as a provider of continuing education in podiatric medicine. CME Online has accreditedthis activity for a maximum of 0.45 continuing education contact hours.

CMEonline: 02-07-2026Rearfoot6 Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus - Kenneth S. Buck Smith, MD

Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus - Kenneth S. Buck Smith, MD