Osteochondritis Dissecans

Question 1

What is Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 1

Idiopathic disease of the subchondral bone and overlying articular cartilage which may result in loose body formation.

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 2

The subchondral bone and overlying articular cartilage becomes avascular (gets no blood) and degenerates.

Question 3

What are the two ‘forms’ of Osteochondritis Dissecans

Answer 3

Juvenile Osteochondritis Dissecans (JOCD)
Adult Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

Question 4

Where does Osteochondritis Dissecans affect the knee?

Answer 4

Mostly affects femoral condyles, most probably the medial femoral condyle

Question 5

Is there a bilateral component to Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 5

OCD is rarely expressed bilaterally.

Question 6

What is the cause of Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 6

Cause is still unknown.
Can be direct trauma or repetitive microtraumas, chemical changes, genetic conditions or hereditary factors.

Question 7

Breakdown the naming of the condition Osteochondritis Dissecans:

Answer 7

Osteo = bone
Chondritis = Cartilage Inflammation
Dissecans = Separate from

Question 8

What is the clinical presentation of Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 8

Non-specific presentation with vague pain and swelling, activity-exacerbating, stiffness and instability.
Mechanical symptoms (giving way, locking, clicking)

Question 9

What is the diagnostic procedure for imaging Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 9

MRI or Plain Radiographs

Question 10

What is the course of management for Osteochondritis Dissecans?

Answer 10

Dependent on severity, surgical option available for severe cases.
Physio = no standard treatment:
Rest / NSAIDs / Exercises