J Knee Surg 2008; 21(2): 106-115
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1247804
Original Article

© 2008 Thieme Medical Publishers

Evaluation and Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions of the Knee

Alvin J. Detterline1 , Jordan L. Goldstein1 , John-Paul H. Rue2 , Bernard R. Bach1  Jr 
  • 1Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Ill
  • 2The National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Md. At the time this article was written, Dr Rue was from Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, Ill
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
14 January 2010 (online)

ABSTRACT

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition affecting the subchondral bone of joints with secondary effects on articular cartilage that results in pain, effusions, loose-body formation, and mechanical symptoms. Left untreated, OCD can lead to the development of degenerative arthritis secondary to joint incongruity and abnormal wear patterns. This article discusses the etiology of knee OCD lesions, clinical presentation, proper evaluation, and treatment options. Treatment of OCD may include nonoperative measures or operative procedures ranging from drilling or fixation of fragments to complex reconstruction procedures such as autologous chondrocyte implantation, osteochondral autograft, and fresh osteochondral allograft. Physicians must consider many factors, including the patient's age and skeletal maturity, as well as size, location, and stability of OCD lesions to determine the proper course of treatment.