Long-term results of Smillie pin fixation of osteochondritis dissecans in the femoral condyles.

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of secondary osteoarthritis after fixation of an osteochondritis dissecans fragment in the knee using Smillie pins as well as to assess the final outcome of the procedure. Eighteen patients treated for osteochondritis dissecans of the knee 10-34 years previously were re-evaluated clinically and radiologically. Moderate secondary osteoarthritis was noted in 35% of the patients, and clinically unsatisfactory result was seen in 44%. The remaining patients showed good or excellent clinical and radiological results at the follow-up.