Core Decompression and Bone Grafting for Osteonecrosis of the Talus: A Critical Analysis of the Current Evidence.

Several operative treatments have been explored to treat patients with progressive or symptomatic osteonecrosis of the talus, aiming to alleviate pain and restore mobility. Because most affected patients are typically younger and more active individuals, joint preservation techniques have received increasing attention. Core decompression, either through an open or percutaneous drilling approach has been used. Similarly, nonvascularized and vascularized bone grafts have been used in clinical practice with varying results. Owing to the relative paucity of studies, in this review we aimed to investigate the use of (1) core decompression and (2) bone grafting for treating osteonecrosis of the talus.