Elbow Osteochondritis Dissecans Repair
Elbow Osteochondritis Dissecans Repair Surgeon
Are you a young athlete who participates in throwing sports, such as baseball? The forceful and repeated actions of this sport and others can strain the immature surface of the outer part of the elbow joint. These athletes may be prone to a troubling elbow condition called osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow or (OCD.) Elbow OCD specialist, Dr. Nikhil Verma provides diagnosis and both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options for patients in Westchester, Oakbrook, Hinsdale and surrounding Chicago communities who have developed osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow. Contact Dr. Verma’s team today!
Elbow Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) repair FAQ
What is osteochondritis dissecans?
Osteochondritis dissecans is a joint disorder that causes cracks in the articular cartilage and the underlying subchondral bone, causing it to break away. OCD causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the affected joint.
What causes elbow osteochontritis dissecans lesions?
OCD is caused by the lack of blood in the subchondral bone. This loss of blood flow causes the subchondral bone to die in a process called avascular necrosis. The bone is then reabsorbed by the body, leaving the behind articular cartilage damage.
How does elbow osteochontritis dissecans occur?
Dr. Verma and other top orthopedic specialists believe OCD occurs from repeated stress to the bone. Young athletes who participate in competitive sports are most prone to the condition. Constant stress on the developing bone can reduce the blood flow to the bone, causing osteochondritis dissecans to occur.
How can elbow osteochondritis dissecans be treated?
Dr. Verma has both surgical and non-surgical treatments available for OCD. Non-surgical treatments most often involve rest and discontinuing the activity that caused the condition until it has had proper time to heal. Surgical options may include debridement, drilling, internal fixation or an osteochondral allograft. It is important to talk with Dr. Verma to determine which treatment is best for you.
Does elbow osteochondritis dissecans go away?
OCD can “go away” after a period of rest and healing. It is important to follow the correct rehabilitation guidelines from Dr. Verma and his team. Strengthening exercises and body mechanics changes may be beneficial in preventing further osteochondritis dissecans.
What are the symptoms of elbow osteochondritis dissecans elbow?
Patients experiencing OCD of the elbow often report symptoms of pain, cracking or popping when the joint is straightened or bent, decreased range of motion, elbow tenderness and swelling, and the sensation of catching in the joint.
Is osteochondritis dissecans curable?
There is not a cure for osteochondritis dissecans, but there are many treatment options for the condition. Dr. Verma is able to successfully treat OCD for patients in Chicago, returning them to the activities they enjoy.
Is osteochondritis dissecans common?
OCD in the knee or elbow is relatively uncommon. Children or youth most commonly have symptoms related to OCD and it typically affects children who participate in competitive sports.
