Causative & risk factors
The exact cause of osteochondritis dissecans is not known. It may occur as a result of repetitive stress or trauma to the affected joint.
Clinical presentation
The affected joint may be painful and swollen. The symptoms usually worsen after physical activity. As the condition progresses, the joint may start locking when trying to move it.
Investigations
First the physician will elicit the medical history of the patient followed by a physical examination. Imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI of the affected joint are performed to visualize the position of the affected cartilage and bone tissue.
Treatment
In younger children, no treatment is necessary since the affected bone and cartilage tend to heal themselves. However they are advised to avoid straining the joint as far as possible. Treatment is essential in grown children and adults.
Conservative treatment involves the use of splints, casts or crutches depending upon the joint affected.
Arthroscopic surgery is necessary in severe cases and in patients who do not respond to conservative treatment. The surgical procedure may involve internal fixation, drilling into the lesion, removal of the loose bone and cartilage or insertion of a bone graft.
