Objective        To evaluate the efficiency of arthroscopic microfracture surgery in the treatment of osteochondral lesion of the talus (OLT).       Methods      Clinical data of 163 OLT patients undergoing arthroscopic microfracture from July 2005 to August 2012 were collected and retrospectively analyzed. They were 79 males and 84 females

with an average age of 38.6±14.2 years (ranging from 18 to 72). Their ankle functions and pain intensity were assessed respectively according to American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) ankle and hind-foot scores and visual analogue scale (VAS) preoperatively and postoperatively. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the ankle were obtained 12 months after surgery in some of these patients.       Results      Ninety-four patients completed the follow-up

with an average duration of 22.8±10.3 months. The mean VAS score was decreased from 4.51±0.84 preoperatively to 0.98±0.90 at the last follow-up

and the median AOFAS score was improved from 75 preoperatively to 91 at the last follow-up. All the 25 patients who received MRI after surgery showed improvement of the cartilage.       Conclusion      Arthroscopic microfracture procedure is a simple and safe approach in treatment of OLT

with sound efficiency and satisfying outcome.