Combining microfracture surgery with platelet-rich plasma injection for ankle cartilage repair

Clinical Efficacy of Arthroscopic Microfracture Combined With Local Injection of Platelet Rich Plasma Gel in Treatment of Osteochondral Lesion of the Talus: A Randomized Control Trial

Not applicable Interventional Peking University Third Hospital · NCT06358807

This study is testing if adding a platelet-rich plasma injection to microfracture surgery can help people with ankle cartilage damage feel better and recover more effectively.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorPeking University Third Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Beijing)
Trial IDNCT06358807 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combining arthroscopic microfracture surgery with an injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) gel in treating osteochondral lesions of the talus. Participants will either receive the combined treatment or undergo isolated microfracture surgery. The study will assess improvements in ankle function using the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Score and evaluate the integration of the injured cartilage through MRI follow-ups. The goal is to determine if the addition of PRP gel enhances clinical outcomes compared to microfracture alone.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with chronic ankle pain due to osteochondral lesions of the talus who have not found relief from conservative treatments.

Not a fit: Patients with significant ankle deformities, severe ligament injuries, or other joint conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved recovery and function for patients with ankle cartilage injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this trial.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Chronic ankle pain, diagnosed as osteochondral lesion of the talus;
* Lesion size ≤ 1.5 cm2 or the diameter of the lesion ≤ 1.5 cm;
* Conservative treatment of at least 3 months fails to relieve symptoms;
* Willingness to voluntarily participate in the trial and to sign informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Varus or valgus deformity of the ankle of more than 5 degrees;
* Grade III injury of the lateral collateral ligament of ankle;
* Chronic synovitis (rheumatoid arthritis, pigmented villous nodular synovitis, etc.);
* Joint fibrosis, stiffness, and significantly restricted range of motion;
* Evidence of moderate to severe knee osteoarthritis on plain radiographs;
* Failure to complete the rehabilitation protocol as required;
* Patient medically not fit for surgery, radiographs or MRI;
* For women, pregnant, planning to be pregnant or lactating.

Where this trial is running

Beijing

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Osteochondral Lesion of TalusMicrofracturesPlatelet Rich PlasmaArthroscopic TechniquesClinical Efficacy
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.