Osteochondritis dissecans

Question 1

What is osteochondritis dissecans?

Answer 1

A condition in which an area of the surface of the knee loses its blood supply, causing the formation of a subchondral or cartilaginous bone lesion, which can fragment off, causing a cavity in the knee

Question 2

What disease does osteochondritis dissecans increase the risk of?

Answer 2

Arthritis

Question 3

Describe the aetiology of osteochondritis dissecans

Answer 3

• Found mostly in adolescence
• Thought to be caused by repetitive knee injury
• Mild genetic component

Question 4

How will osteochondritis dissecans present?

Answer 4

Some cases of osteochondritis dissecans are asymptomatic, however, most people will present with knee pain and recurrent effusions of the knee

Question 5

How is osteochondritis dissecans usually managed?

Answer 5

It can often heal or resolve spontaneously, however there are some indications for surgery

Question 6

What surgical options are available in osteochondritis dissecans?

Answer 6

Detachment on the MRI indicates pinning or removal of the fragment
Cartilage regeneration may also be used in cases of persistent pain