950 922 9448
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) of the Knee
A Growing Pain That Needs the Right Attention
What is OCD of the Knee?
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a joint condition where a small piece of bone and cartilage loosens and may detach inside your knee.
It commonly affects young athletes and teenagers during their growth years but can also occur in adults after trauma or overuse.
Simple Explanation:
Think of the bone under your cartilage as a sponge.
If part of that sponge becomes weak due to poor blood flow, it can start cracking — eventually breaking off a chunk of cartilage and bone.
That’s OCD.
Most Common Site:
Medial Femoral Condyle (inside part of the lower thigh bone)
Signs You Might Have OCD
- Deep pain inside the knee (especially after activity)
- Swelling or stiffness
- Clicking, locking, or catching sensation
- Trouble straightening the knee
- Feeling like something is “loose” inside the joint
Especially Common In:
- Young athletes (10–20 years)
- Sports involving running, jumping, and quick stops (football, basketball, gymnastics)
- Individuals with history of repetitive knee trauma
How is OCD Diagnosed?
We follow a step-by-step process:
- Detailed History & Exam
- We check for tenderness, swelling, and joint movement
- X-rays
- Helps spot the lesion (especially in early stages)
- MRI
-
Shows cartilage damage, bone changes, and whether the fragment is still attached
- CT Scan (If Planning Surgery)
- Precise view of fragment size and stability
Treatment Options: What’s Best for You?
Did You Know?
If untreated, OCD can lead to early osteoarthritis and permanent damage to the joint.
Early diagnosis = better outcomes ✅
What to Expect After Surgery?
- Crutches for 4–6 weeks (non-weight bearing depending on procedure)
- Physiotherapy to regain strength and mobility
- Return to sports: ~4 to 9 months depending on procedure
Book Your Appointment Today
Don’t ignore growing knee pain. Let’s catch OCD early.
- BoneXpert Clinic – Shantiraj Hospital, Udaipur
- Call/WhatsApp: +91 95092 29448
- www.bonexpert.in
Non-Surgical Treatment
Ideal if the lesion is small, stable, and you’re still growing
- Rest & activity modification
- Bracing
- Physical therapy to reduce strain
- Regular follow-up with imaging
Goal: Allow the bone to heal naturally over time
Surgical Treatment
Recommended if:
- The fragment is loose or unstable
- Symptoms persist after rest
- You are skeletally mature (adult bone)
Surgical Options We Offer:
|
Procedure |
When We Use It |
What It Does |
|
✔️ Drilling (Retrograde/Microfracture) |
Early-stage OCD |
Stimulates blood supply to heal bone |
|
✔️ Fixation (with pins/screws) |
Stable but detached fragment |
Reattaches the fragment |
|
✔️ Cartilage Restoration (OATS, ACI, or MACI) |
Fragment is damaged or missing |
Transplants new cartilage into the defect |
|
✔️ Debridement or Loose Body Removal |
Fragment is floating & painful |
Removes debris and smooths the joint |
Goal: Save your joint, restore movement, and prevent arthritis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is OCD the same as arthritis?
No, but it can lead to arthritis if not treated early.
Can children recover without surgery?
Yes! If the lesion is stable and caught early, most kids heal with rest and bracing.
Will I need surgery again later in life?
Not usually, if the joint heals well and you maintain joint health.
Can I play sports again after OCD surgery?
Yes, after full recovery and strengthening. We guide you step-by-step.
Testimonial
Patient Story
“My son had swelling in his knee after football practice. We were worried it was just growing pain. Dr. Jain diagnosed early-stage OCD and started treatment. Today, he’s back on the field pain-free!”