An osteochondral defect is comprised of varying amounts of bone (osteo) and cartilage (chondral).  The depth of the OCD determines the quantity of bone and cartilage that are affected.  Cartilage typically has very little healing potential, whereas bone heals well when it is in the correct position (eg undisplaced broken bones).  Traumatic OCDs are typically associated with direct injuries or kneecap dislocations.  These are usually displaced and do not heal by themselves.

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCDs without trauma) occur during childhood for unknown reasons.  There is a spectrum of these lesions ranging from undisplaced lesions with intact cartilage to completely displaced and free floating loose pieces of bone and cartilage within the knee

Blue arrow indicates Osteochondritis Dissecans

Osteochondral defects can occur in a variety of locations within the knee, and they can also occur in other joints in the body, such as ankles, hips and elbows.  The size, position and classification of the lesion will determine what treatment is indicated.  This can range from observation, through to keyhole or open surgery.  Please contact Dr Slattery to discuss what treatment is appropriate for your knee condition.

The blue arrow in the image above demonstrates the defect in the normal knee cartilage (shiny white) on the outside of the knee.  This osteochondral fracture was as a result of a kneecap dislocation.