Non-traumatic osteochondral lesions of the knee joint during growth : Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans (JOCD) of the knee

Abstract

Juvenile osteochondritis dissecans of the knee joint is the most common osteochondral lesion during growth, usually occurring between the 10thand 14thyear of age. Repetitive microtraumata lead to asubchondral osseus lesion, which is commonly located at the medial aspect of the femoral condyle. Sport activities are considered to be the main cause, although genetic and hereditary factors as well as vitamin D3 deficiency also play arole. Current classification systems distinguish between stable and unstable osteochondral lesions, which is decisive for further treatment. Stable lesions may heal through conservative treatment by avoiding weight bearing and sport. Unstable lesions, on the other hand, can lead to acomplete defect of the joint surface with the formation of afree joint body. In such cases, various surgical techniques aim at reconstructing the surface of the joint, in order to reduce the risk of secondary arthritis.