Long-term results after transfixation of an osteochondritis dissecans fragment to the femoral condyle using autologous bone transplants in adolescent and adult patients.

A review is reported covering 16 adolescent and 15 adult patients treated for osteochondritis dissecans of the femoral condyles by reconstruction of the articular surface and transfixation of the fragment in situ using autologous bone transplants and followed up for a period of up to 18 years. Sixty percent of the patients were totally symptom-free, whereas in others the clinical symptoms had consistently decreased. A radiologically estimated total remodelling of the condylar surface with union of fragment to the osseous bed was seen in 90%. The reduction of the fragment was incorrect in 16% of the cases. Resorption of the distal ends of cortical bone transplants in the articular surface of the condyle was total in 87%. No immobilization or removal of bone transplants was needed after surgery and all patients later on returned to their previous work.