Recurrent chondroblastoma of the talus: a case report and literature review of recurrent lesions in the foot and ankle

Introduction and importance: Chondroblastoma is a benign cartilaginous tumour that usually presents in the epiphysis of long bones in patients aged 10-20 years old. Only 4 % of primary chondroblastoma occur in the talus. Recurrence is rare, especially in the foot and ankle and there is no consensus regarding how it is best managed. This unique case and literature review add to a limited evidence base.

Case presentation: A 21-year-old male was referred to our elective orthopaedic clinic with persistent anterior ankle pain exacerbated by weight-bearing. Radiographs and MRI revealed a 2.5 cm non-homogenous mass in the anteromedial talus with expansion of overlying bone consistent with chondroblastoma-ABC. Our patient was initially managed by intralesional curettage and autologous bone grafting but had recurrence 4.5 months postoperatively. Subsequent en bloc resection of the talar neck with talonavicular and calcaneocuboid joint fusion resulted in excellent functional outcomes and disease-free survival at 2 years follow-up.

Clinical discussion: There are few reports discussing treatment options for recurrence in the foot and ankle. Successful treatment of primary and recurrent lesions depends on complete local resection. Repeat curettage or en bloc resection are effective options depending on tumour size and location. Type of bone graft or void filler should be considered on a case-by-case basis. Novel therapies (e.g. phenol instillation) may be beneficial.

Conclusion: This case details successful management of recurrent chondroblastoma with en bloc resection of the talar neck and hindfoot reconstruction. We review the efficacy and outcomes of all previously reported recurrent chondroblastoma in the foot and ankle. We highlight multiple potential treatment options.