Q:
I was diagnosed with Osteochondritis Dessicans. I don’t remember having any injuries that could have caused it. What are the possible ways to get this disorder? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
This condition may be caused by incidental trauma and at times occurs for no known reason. Depending on where the osteochondritis is located sometimes malalignment of a joint can be the etiology.
Q:
What are the treatment options for Osteochondritis Dessicans? Is surgery the only option? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
Treatment options depend largely on location. This can range from a very specific exercise or physical therapy regiment to surgical intervention. The vast majority of cases do not require surgery but this decision can only be arrived upon after consultation with an orthopedist.
Q:
I have heard that after having Osteochondritis Dessicans, my knees will never have the same strength or stability again and that I will always experience some pain. Is that true? Is the situation that hopeless? Answered by
Ken Alleyne M.D.
A:
The situation is certainly not hopeless but the symptoms can be prolonged and take patience and diligence and compliance with the plan arrived upon by you and your physician. There is a subgroup of patients who find that their symptoms do not resolve, but this is in no way the majority.
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