Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a condition in which a segment of bone beneath the joint cartilage loses its blood supply, potentially causing that piece of bone and cartilage to soften, crack, or separate from the surrounding healthy bone.
The exact cause isn't fully understood, but repetitive stress on the joint is believed to play a role, and it most often affects active adolescents and young adults, particularly at the knee.
Vague, activity-related knee pain and swelling, and if a fragment becomes loose, catching, locking, or a sensation of the knee giving way.
In younger patients with open growth plates and a stable lesion, activity modification and a period of protected weight-bearing often allow the area to heal on its own. Unstable lesions, loose fragments, or cases that don't heal with conservative care typically require surgery to fix the fragment in place or address the underlying bone defect.
Think you might have this condition? An accurate diagnosis starts with an exam — schedule a consultation with Dr. Thomson.
Schedule a ConsultThis page is for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every injury is different — always consult Dr. Thomson or another qualified physician for a personalized evaluation.