Osteoarthritis Flashcards
What are the symptoms of OA
joint pain, stiffness, swelling and deformity
What does primary OA mean
There is no single underlying cause
How does OA come about
Repeated microtrauma or abnormal biomechanical forces cause damage to weightbearing cartilage exposing subchondral bone . Cysts and sclerosis due to microfracturing of articular surface. Synovial lining becomes inflamed producing effusion
What are the four evident areas of OA on x-rays?
Joint space narrows,
Sclerosis
Cyst formation
Osteophytes
What can be some causes of secondary OA?
trauma, Congenital/developmental issues metabolic diseases Inflammatory disease such as RA Perthes SUFE
What are the early changes of OA?
Inflamed synovium, joint capsule inflamed, narrowing of joint space, fibirllation and fissuration of cartilage
What are the later changes of OA
Osteophytes
Subarticular cysts
Hyperplasia of synovium
Thickening of bone
Which joints are commonly affected by OA
C. Spine Lumbar spine Hips DIPs 1st MCPJ
What lifestyle advice helps with OA
Diet changes, regular exercise and avoidance of impact-loading activities
How can osteoarthritis be treated?
Lifestyle advice, physiotherapy, corticosteroid injections, NSAIDs such as naproxen as long as there are no GI problems.
What is arthroplasty
Total joint replacement
What is hemiarthroplasty?
Half joint replacement of the hip
What is arthrodesis, and where is it most commonly done?
Joint fusion, usually of the ankle or foot
What is osteotomy?
Joint reallignment to redistribute weight more evenly
Joint excision
Removal of the failing joint, less commonly used.
