Osteochondral defects
Damage to the cartilage and bone in combination
A condition resulting from a sprained ankle which has failed to settle, creating long-term pain and instability
About osteochondral defects
Need to know
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What are the symptoms of osteochondral defects? icon plus
Generally pain and swelling are the main symptom, however pain related to physical activities can also be a symptom when there is a history of previous trauma. The pain is usually felt on the weight bearing side, though not always, localised to the side of the joint on which the osteochondral defect exists. It is also not uncommon to have feelings of pain related instability from the joint, despite the fact that the ligaments are all working. -
How are osteochondral defects diagnosed? icon plus
Your consultant will be able to determine the degree of disruption, it can be challenging to diagnose an osteochondral defect at the time of injury, as scans may miss the damage because they are masked by the sprain or trauma that caused the injury.
The damage can range from bruising, to a crater or deep defect on the surface of the joint, lacking the underlying bone as well as cartilage. An osteochondral defect may or may not progress to osteoarthritis and a decision to have treatment will depend upon just how persistent and painful your symptoms may be.
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan may be required.
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Potential treatment options icon plus
Your consultant will discuss treatment options to determine the best approach for you. Possible surgical treatments might include:
- arthroscopic trimming or a micro-fracture procedure, to encourage new cartilage to form
- autologous cartilage transplantation (ACI/ACT)
- mosaicplasty or OATS
- stem cell treatments
These treatments may have a role for defects that have not responded to arthroscopic debridement.
Our orthopaedic consultants
Our locations
From complex foot and ankle surgery to diagnostic scans and procedures, we provide exceptional care across our network of hospitals, outpatient centres and specialist clinics.
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The Wellington Hospital Knee Unit
Platinum Medical Centre
15 – 17 Lodge Road
NW8 7JA
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London Bridge Hospital
27 Tooley Street
London
SE1 2PR
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The Lister Hospital
Chelsea Bridge Road
London
SW1W 8RH
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The Princess Grace Hospital
42-52 Nottingham Place
London W1U 5NY
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The Wellington Hospital
Wellington Place
St John's Wood
London NW8 9LE
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Chelsea Outpatients
272 & 280 Kings Road
London SW3 5AW
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Platinum Medical Centre
15 - 17 Lodge Road
London
NW8 7JA
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HCA UK at The Shard
The Shard
32 St Thomas Street
London SE1 9BS
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Institute of Sport Exercise and Health (ISEH)
170 Tottenham Court Road
London
W1T 7HA
Book an appointment
Our team can help with any enquiries or you can make an appointment with one of our experienced consultants.
Call us today
020 7079 4344