Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

The exact cause of osteochondritis dissecans is not fully understood, but repetitive trauma or stress-related injury to the joint is believed to play a major role.

• High-impact sports such as soccer, basketball, football, and gymnastics often involve jumping, twisting, and pivoting motions that create repeated micro-injuries in the bone beneath the cartilage. Over time, this stress can interrupt blood flow to a portion of the bone, causing it to weaken and potentially separate from the surrounding bone structure.
• In some cases, abnormal bone development during childhood and adolescence may contribute to OCD. As bones grow, they rely on an adequate blood supply for proper development. If a section of bone does not receive sufficient blood flow, it may become fragile and more prone to injury.
• Additionally, genetic factors may influence a person’s likelihood of developing OCD, as the condition has been observed to run in families.
• Biomechanical factors, such as improper joint alignment, can also increase stress on certain areas of the joint, making them more susceptible to OCD. If left untreated, the condition can progress, leading to chronic pain, joint instability, and an increased risk of early-onset arthritis.

Symptoms of OCD vary depending on the severity of the condition and whether the affected bone fragment is still attached or has become loose. In the early stages, individuals may only experience mild discomfort, particularly after physical activity. However, as the condition worsens, symptoms become more noticeable and can interfere with daily movement.

Common symptoms include:

• joint pain that intensifies with activity
• swelling and stiffness in the affected joint
• a sensation of the joint “locking” or “giving way”
• reduced range of motion
• Some individuals may notice clicking, popping, or grinding sensations when moving the joint, especially if a loose fragment is interfering with joint function.

If left untreated, OCD can lead to worsening joint instability. The detachment of the bone and cartilage can cause significant pain and may increase the risk of long-term degenerative changes within the joint. Dr. Gazzaniga and his team at Newport Orthopedic Institute in California specialize in diagnosing and treating joint conditions like OCD to prevent such complications and help patients return to their active lifestyles.

Early diagnosis is crucial to effectively managing osteochondritis dissecans. When a patient visits Newport Orthopedic Institute, Dr. Gazzaniga will begin by discussing their symptoms, medical history, and activity level.

• A thorough physical examination is conducted to assess joint movement, tenderness, swelling, and overall stability.
• Imaging tests are typically required including X-rays provide a clear view of the bone structure and can reveal signs of OCD, such as bone irregularities or loose fragments. However, early-stage OCD may not always be visible on an X-ray. In such cases, MRI is a valuable tool that allows physicians to evaluate the condition of the bone and surrounding cartilage in greater detail. MRI scans help determine whether the bone fragment is still intact or if it has begun to detach, providing critical information for treatment planning.

In some situations, CT scan may be recommended to obtain a more precise three-dimensional view of the affected joint. Additionally, arthroscopy—a minimally invasive surgical procedure that uses a small camera to examine the joint—may be performed to directly assess the severity of the damage. Dr. Gazzaniga and his team at Newport Orthopedic Institute in Orange County, California utilize advanced imaging technology to ensure an accurate diagnosis and develop the most effective treatment plan for each patient.