Osteochondritis Dessecans (OCD)

Michael P. D'Alessandro, M.D.
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

Etiology/Pathophysiology:
Is a transcondylar fracture that splits the articular cartilage from the adjacent bone leaving a flap of cartilage attached at one edge or a free fragment. If the fragment is isolated from the vascular supply it becomes necrotic. Detachment of the fragment to become a loose body is rare in children.

Pathology:
Not applicable

Imaging Findings:
Eighty-five percent involve the medial condyle and it usually extends into the intercondylar notch. On the lateral view the defect is located anterior to intercondylar tibial eminence, unlike the normal variant which is located posterior to the intercondylar tibial eminence.

DDX:

• Normal condylar variant - involves the lateral condyle and does not extend into the intercondylar notch and is posterior to the intercondylar tibial eminence.

References:
See References Chapter.

Section Top | Title Page

See related Provider Topics Bones, Joints and Muscles or Osteonecrosis.

See related Patient Topics or Bones, Joints and Muscles.

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