Imaging of osteochondritis dissecans

Clin Sports Med. 2014 Apr;33(2):221-50. doi: 10.1016/j.csm.2013.12.002. Epub 2014 Feb 16.

Abstract

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) can affect both adults and children, however the imaging characteristics and significance of imaging findings can differ in the juvenile subset with open physes. Radiography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are the primary modalities used to aid in diagnosis, to define a treatment plan, to monitor progress, to assess surgical intervention, and to identify postoperative complications. Newer imaging techniques under continuous development may improve the accuracy of MRI for diagnosis and staging of OCD, and eventually may help to predict the durability of tissue-engineered constructs and cartilage repair.

Keywords: Ankle; Cartilage; Elbow; Knee; Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); Ossification variation; Osteochondritis dissecans; Radiography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Cartilage / diagnostic imaging
  • Cartilage / injuries
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Ossification, Heterotopic / diagnostic imaging
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans / diagnostic imaging*
  • Osteochondritis Dissecans / therapy
  • Radiography