 |
|
|
Cartilage Injury / Chondral Defect of the Knee
Description
Cartilage is the extremely smooth, shiny white material that coats the ends of the bones in almost all of the joints in our body (like the end of a chicken bone, with the soft tissues removed). Unfortunately, cartilage has a poor ability to repair itself when injured. Injuries to the smooth cartilage surface of the knee joint increase rubbing and friction in the knee, and predispose the knee to further cartilage wear and erosion.
Common Causes
Usually a history of trauma, such as a fall or direct blow to the knee. May occur with twisting injuries.
Symptoms
Pain in the knee, often described as aching. Swelling or symptoms of catching in the knee are not uncommon.
Physical Findings
The exam may be fairly unremarkable. There is usually tenderness over the damaged area, and swelling is a common finding.
Workup
This is a difficult injury to diagnose. Exam, x-rays, and possibly an MR scan may be required to rule out other injuries. Cartilage injuries usually do not show on either x-ray or MR scan reliably.
Non-Operative Treatment
Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication and the mainstays of non-operative care.
Surgical Treatment
Arthroscopy of the knee, with one of a variety of surgical procedures, including smoothing out the defect, trying to stimulate scar tissue to grow into the defect, or a cartilage repair procedure.
Comments
This is a potentially devastating injury to the knee. Until recently, there was no way to actually repair injured cartilage. New methods, including growing new cartilage in the defect are very exciting.
Related Information
AAOS Online
|
|
|
Knee Injuries
