Damage to Bone and Cartilage

‘Osteochondral defects’ is the term given to damage to the knee cartilage and the bone that sits directly beneath it. But what causes such defects? What are the symptoms? And how are they treated?

What are osteochondral defects?

‘Osteochondral defects’ is a term that describes a range of conditions and injuries affecting the cartilage that coats the bones in the knee joint and the bone just beneath the cartilage. The defects can occur through injury (for example, through twisting the knee while playing sport). They may also be caused by abnormal development in children or through repetitive strain. There may be a genetic element to developing osteochondral defects.

What is osteochondritis dessicans?

One example of an osteochondral defect is osteochondritis dessicans. Here, the surface of the bone just beneath the cartilage is unable to get the blood flow it needs to survive and breaks loose.

What are the symptoms of an osteochondral defect?

Symptoms vary depending on the specific defect and its causes. Often, however, they will include:

  • Swelling which reoccurs when pressure is placed on the joint
  • Pain triggered by physical activity
  • A dull ache in the knee joint
  • A clicking, catching or locking sensation in the knee (usually causes by loose fragments of bone affecting the mechanism of the knee)
  • Limited range of movement: you may feel unable to fully bend or extend the leg

How do you diagnose osteochondral damage?

Alex will also check your range of movement and order a scan. Cartilage doesn’t show up on X-rays unless there is a piece of bone attached (although these may be used to rule out other damage) so he will use an MRI scan to diagnose osteochondral defects.

For a swift diagnosis, book your appointment now or call 01242 246549.

How do you treat osteochondral defects in the knee?

The treatment varies depending on the specific defect and the patient. In children and adolescents, the injury can often heal itself without the need for surgery.

Physiotherapy, sometimes supported with the use of a knee brace or crutches to take the weight off the joint, can help. If this isn’t effective, surgery may be necessary. While specific surgical approaches may vary between patients, one likely approach may be osteochondral fixation.

Find more about surgery to fix damaged cartilage and bone in Gloucestershire with Alex Dodds.

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Appointments

To make an appointment please either fill in the contact form and you will be called back by our secretary to arrange a convenient appointment time or get in touch directly.

Call Chrissie Holmyard 01242 246549 at Nuffield Health, Cheltenham.