Osteochondral Lesion of the Lateral Femoral Condyle Following Patellar Dislocation – Treatment of a Rare Injury in Adolescents: A Case Study
José Miguel Araújo1*, Natália Barbosa1, Rosana Pinheiro1, Afonso Ruano1 and António Andrade1
1 Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Bragança, Portugal.
*Corresponding Author: José Miguel Araújo, Unidade Local de Saúde do Nordeste, Bragança, Portugal.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.58624/SVOAOR.2024.04.082
Received: October 01, 2024 Published: November 11, 2024
Abstract
Introduction: Osteochondral injuries of the knee are increasingly common among active adolescents, often resulting from acute trauma, repetitive microtrauma, or conditions like osteochondritis dissecans. Patellar dislocation is a frequent cause of osteochondral lesions (OCL). Studies indicate that a significant percentage of patients with patellar dislocation exhibit OCLs, particularly in the anterior lateral femoral condyle and medial portion of the patella.
Case presentation: A case study of a 15-year-old female athlete illustrates the clinical presentation and management of such injuries. After sustaining a knee injury during a football match, she experienced significant pain and swelling, with imaging revealing an osteochondral defect in the lateral gutter. Surgical intervention confirmed the presence of a larger deffect and involved stabilizing the osteochondral fragment and repairing the surrounding cartilage. Postoperative management included a period of non-weight-bearing followed by gradual rehabilitation. Follow-up MRIs showed complete integration of the cartilage defect, and the patient successfully returned to football practice six months post-surgery.
Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of early recognition and appropriate treatment of osteochondral injuries in adolescents. Surgical techniques, including chondral fixation, can be effective, particularly in skeletally immature patients, facilitating a successful return to athletic activities. Early intervention is crucial for preserving joint function and ensuring optimal recovery outcomes.
Keywords: Osteochondral lesion; Knee; Patellofemoral instability
Citation: Araújo JM, Barbosa N, Pinheiro R, Ruano A, Andrade A. Osteochondral Lesion of the Lateral Femoral Condyle Following Patellar Dislocation – Treatment of a Rare Injury in Adolescents: A Case Study. SVOA Orthopaedics 2024, 4:6, 137-140. doi: 10.58624/SVOAOR.2024.04.082