fibula microfracture

.The MRI report reads: There is 6mm cystic area is seen posterior to the talus which is unchanged. There is a contusion noted within the distal fibula without discrete fracture line.  There is overlying soft tissue edema. There are mild degenerative changes at the tibiotalar joint and posterior subtalar joint.  
Impression:  Compression/microfracture of the distal fibula without discrete fracture line.  Overlying soft tissue edema which is increased from prior MRI.  Minimal tendinopathy of the peroneal tendons. No evidence of ligament tear." (10/19/11)

The prior MRI report read:  "There is focal marrow edema identified in the distal portion of the fibula with mild periosteal edema also present.  The findings would be consistent with a stress injury of the distal portion of the fibula.  There is a trace angled joint effusion with a small amount of fluid identified in the anterior and posterior ankle recess.  There is small unfused os trigonum.  Findings consistant with a stress injury without cortical fracture in the distal fiblula.  No significant ligamentous or tendinous pathology is identified in the ankle." (9/22/11)

What does all this mean?  And how long until I can start running again???

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

This would be a difficult question to answer. The ankle findings are more consistent with inflammation; this along with a bone contusion/ bruise may take anything between a few weeks to some months to heal. At this stage I would advise following the management plan suggested by your doctor; and then getting it reviewed in a few weeks, when you can discuss the prognosis in detail with him/ her.
Hope this is helpful.

Take care!