What defines osteochondritis dissecans?

Osteochondritis dissecans is characterized by the separation of subchondral bone and the overlying articular cartilage. This condition typically occurs in weight-bearing joints and often affects adolescents and young adults during their growth years. The underlying cause is thought to involve a disruption of blood flow to the bone, which leads to ischemia and subsequent necrosis of the bone tissue. As a result, the bone loses its structural integrity, and small sections may become loose or detach, potentially leading to joint pain, swelling, and other symptoms.

Recognizing this definition is crucial to understanding the implications and treatment of osteochondritis dissecans. For example, options related to infections or fractures do not accurately describe the distinct pathological process involved in this condition. Similarly, the growth of bone outside normal anatomy does not align with the specific alterations occurring in osteochondritis dissecans, which primarily involves the relationship between the subchondral bone and the cartilage above it.