Osteochondritis dissecans of the knee: a radiology case report.

OBJECTIVE

To discuss the case of a patient with osteochondritis dissecans, a common disorder primarily affecting children and adolescent patients that involves the medial femoral condyle, and to examine its radiologic appearance.

CLINICAL FEATURES: A 25-year-old man with knee pain sought treatment at a chiropractic clinic. The patient had a 2-year history of left knee pain that was exacerbated by activity and relieved with rest. Plain film radiography of the knee revealed findings consistent with osteochondritis dessicans.

INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME: The patient was promptly referred for a concurrent orthopedic consultation with subsequent management. A trial basis of conservative care was initiated with the possibility of future surgical intervention if necessary.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteochondritis dissecans is a common disorder of unknown and perhaps controversial cause. The disease is characterized by a fragment of articular cartilage and subchondral bone (osteochondral fragment) that becomes separated from the underlying bone. Treatment is aimed primarily at the preservation of articular surface congruity.