Osteochondral injury and osteochondritis dissecans

An osteochondral injury affects both the joint cartilage and the bone underneath it. It may follow an acute injury or develop gradually through repetitive stress. Osteochondritis dissecans, often called OCD, is most common in adolescents and young adults.

Symptoms include localised pain, swelling and sometimes catching or locking if a fragment loosens. Stable lesions in younger patients may heal with reduced activity and rehabilitation. Unstable or detached fragments may require arthroscopic fixation or cartilage restoration treatment.