Osteochondritis Dissecans Flashcards
What is Osteochondritis Dissecans?
The bone under cartilage dies due to lack of blood flow
What happens after the bone dies?
The bone and cartilage break off causing pain and affecting joint movement
Which joint is most commonly affected by osteochondritis dissecans?
Knee
Who does osteochondritis dissecans normally affect?
Children and young adults
What can happen if osteochondritis dissecans is left untreated?
Can progress to degenerative changes
How does osteochondritis dissecans present?
Knee pain and swelling, typically after exercise
Knee catching, locking and/or giving way
Feeling a painful ‘clunk’ when flexing or extending the knee
What are the signs of osteochondritis dissecans?
Joint effusion
Tenderness on palpation of medial femoral condyle
Wilson’s sign for detecting medial condyle lesion
Which area is painful on palpation when the knee is flexed with osteochondritis dissecans?
Medial Femoral condyle
What might you find on clinical examination?
Palpable loose bodies
Recurrent effusions
Reduced range of movements
What imaging can be used to diagnose osteochondritis dissecans?
X-ray
MRI
What might you see on an x-ray with osteochondritis dissecans?
Subchondral crescent sign
Loose bodies
What can an MRI be used for in someone with osteochondritis dissecans?
Evaluate cartilage
Visualise loose bodies
Stage and assess the stability of the lesion
What is the management of osteochondritis dissecans?
Conservative- bone will heal if rested properly
In adults: Arthroscopy- reduce the number of fragments in the join
