What is the Treatment for Osteochondritis Dissecans?
There are two main types of treatment: non-surgical treatment and surgery.
Physical Therapy
Most patients start with non-surgical treatment for osteochondritis dissecans. The first step is to rest the joint. Children must stop playing most sports for at least two to four months. During that time, they also may use crutches, a brace or a cast to reduce pressure and protect the joint.
Physical therapy for osteochondritis dissecans is also used as a non-surgical treatment. It’s important to start a physical therapy routine quickly after an injury. Physical therapy can address pain, range of motion and strength while protecting the joint as it heals. The goal of physical therapy is to get children back to their previous activities.
Surgery
A doctor may suggest surgery for osteochondritis dissecans if:
- Non-surgical treatment hasn’t relieved symptoms.
- The osteochondritis dissecans stage is more advanced.
- The patient is age 13 or older.
Most surgeries are outpatient procedures. This means children go home the same day. The surgeon may do one of the following:
- Perform an arthroscopic surgery, where they drill into the affected area. This surgery can help get more blood flow to the area and promote healing.
- Secure the loose bone in place with pins and screws.
- Use a bone graft to replace the damaged area. New bone or cartilage for the graft may come from the patient’s body or another source, such as a cadaver.
During recovery from osteochondritis dissecans surgery, most children are on crutches for at least six weeks. They also complete two to four months of physical therapy to rebuild strength in their joint.