Editorial Commentary: Robbing Peter to Pay Paul? Is Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation of the Elbow Capitellum Worth the Price?

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow capitellum is a common disorder that causes pain and functional limitation in the athletic adolescent elbow. Many surgical options have been proposed over the years, but none has stood the test of time. A recent well-written systematic review highlights the treatment options and recognizes a growing trend toward osteochondral allograft transplantation as the ideal solution. Unfortunately, the study also underscores the paucity of evidence on which we base our treatment decisions for OCD of the elbow in the young athlete. Although the potential benefits of osteochondral grafting are encouraging, consideration of associated risks such as donor site morbidity is essential.