Osteochondritis Dissecans
Osteochondritis Dissecans is a knee injury which is common in adolescents. It can also occasionally affect other joints, such as the elbow and ankle.
Symptoms of Osteochondritis Dissecans
The symptoms can vary considerably due to the extent of displacement of the fragment. If there is little or no displacement there may be few or no symptoms and the fracture site may heal itself. In cases where the fragment is completely dislodged and 'floating' in the joint, more severe symptoms may include:
Causes of Osteochondritis Dissecans
- Traumatic injury.
- Overuse.
- Growth disturbances.
- Ligament weakness.
- Cartilage injuries.
- Genetics.
It is caused by the separation of a fragment of cartilage (usually some attached bone as well) from the joint surface. This occurs due to a disruption to the blood flow. This most commonly occurs at the medial femoral condyle (end of the femur, in the inner knee joint). This fragment is sometimes known as a loose body as it tends to float around within the knee joint.
This condition may also be referred to as an Ostechondral Fracture. The term Osteochondritis Dissecans is actually falling out of favour because the 'itis' at the end suggests inflammation, which is now known not to be present in this injury. It is 2-3 times more common in males.
Treatment for Osteochondritis Dissecans
- Osteochondritis dissecans is usually treated conservatively.
- Rest, Ice and compression to reduce swelling.
- Physical therapy to maintain full range of motion and strengthen surrounding muscles.
- Immobilisation is sometimes used in extreme cases.
- Anti-inflammatory medication may be prescribed.
In more severe cases or where conservative treatment has failed, surgery may be undertaken. Surgery is performed via arthroscopy, where several different types of procedure may be used dependant on the individual and the extent of the injury. Any loose bodies will be removed and the fracture site repaired.
