Bernt Hardy Stage 1 is defined as which of the following?

Bernt Hardy Stage 1 is defined as which of the following?

• A. Partial fragment detachment
• B. Small area of subchondral compression
• C. Displaced fragment
• D. Complete fragment detachment but not displaced

Answer: (B)

Berndt and Harty describe stages of talar dome osteochondral lesions, and the first stage is an impression fracture with subchondral compression. This means there is a small area of compression under the cartilage, a bone bruise, but no detachment or displacement of cartilage or bone. That’s why this choice fits Stage I best. In later stages the lesion progresses to a partially detached fragment, a displaced fragment, and finally a completely detached fragment with a loose body. Radiographs can be subtle at this stage, often showing edema and a tiny depression on MRI or CT rather than a visible free fragment.

Berndt and Harty describe stages of talar dome osteochondral lesions, and the first stage is an impression fracture with subchondral compression. This means there is a small area of compression under the cartilage, a bone bruise, but no detachment or displacement of cartilage or bone. That’s why this choice fits Stage I best. In later stages the lesion progresses to a partially detached fragment, a displaced fragment, and finally a completely detached fragment with a loose body. Radiographs can be subtle at this stage, often showing edema and a tiny depression on MRI or CT rather than a visible free fragment.