Osteochondral autograft transplantation for osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum in nonthrowing athletes

[Bone-cartilage transfer for osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum]

OBJECTIVE

Treatment of focal cartilage defects of the humeral capitellum with autologous bone-cartilage cylinders to prevent development of arthritis of the elbow joint.

INDICATIONS

High-grade, unstable lesions (> 50% of the capitellum, grade III-IV according to Dipaola), including those involving the lateral edge of the capitellum and with a depth of up to 15 mm.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Stable lesions and generalized osteochondritis of the capitellum (including Panner's disease), as well as a relative contraindication for lesions > 10 mm, as the largest punch has a maximum diameter of 10 mm.

SURGICAL TECHNIQUE

Arthroscopy of the elbow joint, transition to open surgery. First, the size of the cartilage defect in the capitellum is determined. Then, one (or several) osteochondral cylinders (OATS Arthex) are removed, which as far as possible completely encompass the defect zone. Corresponding intact bone-cartilage cylinders are obtained from the ipsilateral proximal lateral femoral condyle, each with a 0.3 mm larger diameter via an additive miniarthrotomy. The "healthy" cylinders are then inserted into the defect zone in a "press fit" technique.

POSTOPERATIVE MANAGEMENT

An upper arm cast in neutral position of the hand for 10-14 days, simultaneously beginning physiotherapy (active-assisted movements) and lymphatic drainage. As soon as painless range of motion (ROM) is restored (goal: by week 6), isometric training can be started. Resistance training starts from week 12. Competitive sports are only recommended after 6(-8) months.

RESULTS

The current state of research on the surgical treatment of OCD of the humeral capitellum using autologous osteochondral grafts shows mostly promising results. A recent meta-analysis of 24 studies reports a significantly higher (p < 0.01) rate of return to sports (94%) compared to fragment fixation (64%) or microfracture and debridement (71%) [41]. However, the increased donor-site morbidity must be taken into account (ca. 7.8%).

Outcomes and return to sport after osteochondral autograft transplantation for osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum: a systematic review

Background

Capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions are common in athletes. Osteochondral autograft transfer (OAT) is one possible treatment option, though outcomes including return to sport (RTS) data are limited to small series. The purpose of this study was to systematically review RTS following OAT for capitellar OCD lesions. Our secondary objectives were to evaluate patient-reported outcomes (PROs), range of motion (ROM), and complications after OAT.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature were searched for peer-reviewed articles on "osteochondral autograft transfer" and related terms for capitellar OCD lesions. Articles were included if they reported an RTS rate and had a follow-up time point of at least 12 months. Data on RTS rates, PRO measures, complications, and ROM were extracted. Articles were assessed for methodological quality using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies criteria.

Results

Six hundred sixty-six articles were retrieved, and 24 articles (470 patients) met the inclusion criteria. In total, 454/470 patients (97%) returned to sports following OAT for OCD. The RTS rate ranged from 79% to 100%. Return to previous level of performance ranged from 10% to 100%. Timmerman-Andrews postoperative scores (range = 169-193) were most often reported, with 87% of patients showing scores within the excellent range. Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand and Japanese Orthopedic Association scores were also excellent postoperatively for all studies reporting, with higher scores among centralized lesions vs. lateral.

Conclusions

Following OAT for capitellar OCD lesions, RTS rates are high; however, athletes should be counseled on the potential of a return to lower performance or the need to change positions. Lateral lesion location may negatively impact outcomes. PRO scores are typically excellent and postoperative ROM consistently improves. This information helps counsel patients regarding expectations and outcomes of OAT for OCD of the capitellum.

Osteochondral Allograft Transplantation to the Capitellum: Technical Considerations of a Mega Osteochondritis Dissecans Technique

Osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow is a rare but debilitating pathology typically found in the adolescent repetitive overhead athlete. In the setting of unstable lesions, mechanical symptoms, or deteriorating function despite appropriate conservative management, surgical osteochondral allograft transplantation of the capitellum is a viable option for even large lesions (>10 mm), with minimal morbidity and good return of function. We describe a technique for performing a large osteochondral allograft transplantation of the capitellum.

Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Elbow in Overhead Athletes: A Comprehensive Narrative Review

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow mainly occurs in overhead athletes (OHAs). This narrative review aimed to comprehensively analyze the epidemiological data, etiological factors, clinical and imaging features, treatment options, and outcomes of OHAs with the diagnosis of elbow OCD. A literature search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science. Individuals with elbow OCD were usually 10-17 years of age with incidence and prevalence varying between studies, depending on the sport activity of the patients. The etiology of OCD lesions is multifactorial, and the main causes are believed to be repetitive trauma, the biomechanical disproportion of the articular surfaces, poor capitellar vascular supply, and inflammatory and genetic factors. Athletes usually presented with elbow pain and mechanical symptoms. The mainstay for the diagnosis of elbow OCD is MRI. The treatment of elbow OCD lesions should be conservative in cases of stable lesions, while various types of surgical treatment are suggested in unstable lesions, depending mainly on the size and localization of the lesion. The awareness of medical practitioners and the timely diagnosis of OCD lesions in OHAs are key to favorable outcomes.

Five-Year Follow-up of Adolescent Gymnasts After Surgical Treatment of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Elbow

PURPOSE

Elbow osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is well-studied in throwing athletes; however, there are limited data regarding gymnasts with capitellar OCD lesions. We aimed to determine the overall rate of return to competition following surgical treatment of capitellar OCD lesions and to determine the relationship, if any, between arthroscopic grade of lesion and ability to return to competition.

METHODS

A medical chart Current Procedural Terminology query from 2000 to 2016 yielded data on 55 competitive adolescent gymnasts who were treated surgically for elbow OCD lesions in a total of 69 elbows. Retrospective chart review was used to collect data on preoperative and postoperative symptoms and surgical treatment. Patients were contacted to complete questionnaires (Modified Andrews Elbow Scoring System, Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) on return to sport. Current elbow function and follow-up data were available for 40 of 69 elbows.

RESULTS

Average age at time of surgery was 12.1 years with 18 of 55 (33%) of patients competing at a pre-elite level of gymnastics (level 9 or 10 of 10) before surgery. Nine out of 31 gymansts (29%) underwent bilateral surgery for OCD lesions. Average OCD lesion size was 10 mm. Thirty-one of 40 elbows (78%) were treated with debridement back to a stable cartilage rim with microfracture, and nine of 40 elbows (22%) were treated with debridement alone. Thirty-six of 40 patients (90% returned to competitive gymnastics with all returning patients competing at or above the same level after surgery. Among the patients who were followed up, 29 of 30 patients (97%) reported some difficulty with specific events on return to competition.

CONCLUSIONS

The rate of return to sport for gymnasts at 90% is similar to that observed in other sports. This study suggests that elbow OCD lesions are not career-ending injuries for adolescent gymnasts; however, gymnasts should not expect a fully asymptomatic return to all events in a sport.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Adolescent Athletes Achieve High Levels of Athletic and Daily Function After Arthroscopic Marrow Stimulation for Elbow Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans

Purpose

To determine the functional outcomes of adolescent athletes treated with arthroscopic marrow stimulation/microfracture for elbow capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).

Methods

The medical records for all patients younger than 18 years of age with capitellar OCD who underwent arthroscopic treatment at a single institution were retrospectively reviewed. The variables examined included patient characteristics, bone age, pre- and postoperative lesion grade/size and range of motion (ROM), intraoperative lesion grade/size, time to postoperative return to sport, and validated outcome scores.

Results

Twenty patients with 21 treated elbows met the study's inclusion criteria. Three patients were not available for follow-up, leaving 18 of 21 (85.7%) elbows in the final cohort. Mean age and follow-up was 14.1 and 4.4 years, respectively. All 18 elbows were treated with diagnostic arthroscopy, arthroscopic debridement with loose body removal as indicated, and marrow stimulation. Sixteen of 18 (88.9%) elbows returned to sports postoperatively, with 12 of 18 (66.7%) elbows returning to their primary sport at the same level or higher. Overall, there were significant improvements in elbow ROM (132.8°, range 120°-140° postoperatively, compared with 122.1°, range 80°-140° preoperatively) (P = .002) and excellent Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand scores (mean 2.3 ± 5.1), as well as Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic Overhead Athlete Shoulder and Elbow scores (mean 94.1 ± 8.7) in those who returned to sports. There was no correlation with outcome or return to sport for preoperative lesion grade/size, bone age, physeal status or open versus arthroscopic treatment.

Conclusions

Arthroscopic debridement and marrow stimulation for capitellar OCD in adolescent athletes leads to improvements in ROM, as well as a high rate of return to sport, and high levels of athletic and daily functional activity during follow-up, regardless of bone age and lesion grade/size at time of surgery.

Level of Evidence

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Posttreatment Changes of the Elbow

Radiologists should be familiar with the typical surgical procedures applied at the elbow and aware of the spectrum of normal and pathologic appearances of posttreatment situations throughout all radiologic modalities. Most important in the case of posttraumatic surgical elbow procedures is correct postoperative elbow joint alignment, appropriate fixation of joint-forming fragments, and proper insertion of screws, plates, and anchor devices that do not conflict with intra-articular or bony structures. To report soft tissue repair procedures correctly, radiologists need to know the broad spectrum of different techniques applied and their appearance on magnetic resonance imaging.

Overuse Elbow Injuries in Youth Gymnasts

BACKGROUND

Gymnastics is a unique sport that places significant loads across the growing elbow, resulting in unique overuse injuries, some of which are poorly described in the current literature.

PURPOSE

To provide a comprehensive review of the unique overuse elbow injuries seen in youth gymnasts and to provide an up-to-date synthesis of the available literature and clinical expertise guiding treatment decisions in this population.

STUDY DESIGN

Narrative review.

METHODS

A review of the PubMed database was performed to include all studies describing elbow biomechanics during gymnastics, clinical entities of the elbow in gymnasts, and outcomes of operative and/or nonoperative treatment of elbow pathology in gymnasts.

RESULTS

Participation in gymnastics among youth athletes is high, being the sixth most common sport in children. Early specialization is the norm in this sport, and gymnastics also has the highest number of participation hours of all youth sports. As a result, unique overuse elbow injuries are common, primarily on the lateral side of the elbow. Beyond common diagnoses of radiocapitellar plica and osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum, we describe a pathology unique to gymnasts involving stress fracture of the radial head. Additionally, we synthesized our clinical experience and expertise in gymnastics to provide a sport-specific rehabilitation program that can be used by providers treating surgical and nonsurgical conditions of the elbow and wishing to provide detailed activity instructions to their athletes.

CONCLUSION

Overuse injuries of the elbow are common in gymnastics and include osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum, radiocapitellar plica syndrome, and newly described radial head stress fractures. A thorough understanding of the psychological, cultural, and biomechanical aspects of gymnastics are necessary to care for these athletes.

Treatment Strategies and Outcomes for Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum

BACKGROUND

The optimum management of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum is a widely debated subject.

PURPOSE

To better understand the efficacy of different surgical modalities and nonoperative treatment of OCD as assessed by radiological and clinical outcomes and return to sports.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

A systematic review of all treatment studies published between January 1975 and June 2020 was performed following the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. A total of 76 clinical studies, including 1463 patients, were suitable for inclusion. Aggregate analysis and subgroup analysis of individual patient data were performed to compare the functional and radiographic outcomes between the various nonoperative and surgical treatment options for capitellar OCD. A unified grading system (UGS; grades 1-4) was developed from existing validated classification systems to allow a comparison of patients with similar-grade OCD lesions in different studies according to their treatment. Patient-level data were available for 352 patients. The primary outcome measures of interest were patient-reported functional outcome, range of motion (ROM), and return to sports after treatment. The influences of the capitellar physeal status, location of the lesion, and type of sports participation were also assessed. Each outcome measure was evaluated according to the grade of OCD and treatment method (debridement/microfracture, fragment fixation, osteochondral autograft transplantation [OATS], or nonoperative treatment).

RESULTS

No studies reported elbow scores or ROM for nonoperatively treated patients. All surgical modalities resulted in significantly increased postoperative ROM and elbow scores for stable (UGS grades 1 and 2) and unstable lesions (UGS grades 3 and 4). There was no significant difference in the magnitude of improvement or overall scores according to the type of surgery for stable or unstable lesions. Return to sports was superior with nonoperative treatment for stable lesions, whereas surgical treatment was superior for unstable lesions. Patients with an open capitellar physis had superior ROM for stable and unstable lesions, but there was no correlation with lesion location and the outcomes of OATS versus fragment fixation for high-grade lesions.

CONCLUSION

Nonoperative treatment was similar in outcomes to surgical treatment for low-grade lesions, whereas surgical treatment was superior for higher grade lesions. There is currently insufficient evidence to support complex reconstructive techniques for high-grade lesions compared with microfracture/debridement alone.

Outcomes of Osteochondral Autograft Transplantation in Pediatric Patients With Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum

PURPOSE

To assess the outcomes of osteochondral autograft transplantations in the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum in the pediatric population.

METHODS

Between 2011 and 2016, 15 patients who had undergone osteochondral autograft transplantation at a mean age of 13.7 years at surgery were identified. The donor site was from the superolateral, non-weight-bearing surface of the lateral femoral condyle of the ipsilateral knee.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up was 29.5 months, with no patients lost to follow-up. Mean arc of motion increased significantly from 121.9° preoperatively to 139.1° postoperatively. All 9 elite athletes returned to sports at an elite level: 7 returned to the same level of competition in the same sport, 1 retired from gymnastics due to multiple injuries but began diving at an elite level, and 1 retired from baseball unrelated to elbow symptoms but continued hockey at the same level. Of the 4 recreational athletes, all returned to sport. There were no intraoperative complications. The symptoms resolved completely in all but 2 patients, who improved over their preoperative condition. The donor site knee pain resolved in all patients at an average of 2.3 months. Postoperative imaging demonstrated the healing and incorporation of the plug in all patients.

CONCLUSIONS

In the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum, osteochondral autograft transplantation demonstrates excellent clinical and radiographic outcomes, with minimal short-term donor site morbidity and a high level of return to the sport.

TYPE OF STUDY/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic IV.

Treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum with a fragment fixation method using absorbable pins

Hypothesis

This study aimed to investigate the results, indications, and limitations of absorbable pin fixation for osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum in the separation stage.

Methods

This study included 35 patients (mean age, 14.0 years). Patients were divided into two groups: Group A included those who obtained complete union within 6 months and Group B included those who did not observe complete union within 6 months. The clinical findings were compared between the groups.

Results

There were 26 and 6 patients in Groups A and B, respectively. Two patients did not obtain complete union. Clinical outcomes improved after the procedure. In univariate analysis, delayed union was associated with larger major diameter (P = .0004) and more depth (P = .03) of the osteochondral fragment measured by computed tomography, the presence of osteosclerosis in the subchondral bed on X-ray imaging (P = .003), and the presence of comminution of subchondral bone on ultrasound imaging (P = .01). In multivariate analysis, there was a significant difference only in the major diameter of the osteochondral fragment (P = .03). Receiver operating characteristic curves analysis shows that if the major diameter of the osteochondral fragment is 11 mm or less, 85% of patients achieve complete union of the osteochondral fragments within 6 months.

Conclusion

Absorbable pin fixation may be considered for the osteochondral fragments with major diameter of 11 mm or less and should not be considered for patients who demonstrate osteosclerosis in the subchondral bed or comminution of subchondral bone.

Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions of the Elbow: A Systematic Review of Osteochondral Graft Reconstruction Options

PURPOSE

To systematically evaluate the outcomes and complications of osteochondral autograft transfer (OAT) and osteochondral allograft transplantation (OCA) for the surgical treatment of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD).

METHODS

A literature search was conducted across 3 databases (PubMed, Cochrane, and CINAHL [Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature]) from database inception through December 2019 in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Individual study quality was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies scale. Studies were published between 2005 and 2019.

RESULTS

Eighteen studies consisting of 446 elbow OCD lesions treated with OAT surgery were included. There was a single OCA study eligible for inclusion. Patient ages ranged from 10 to 45 years. Of the OAT studies, 4 used autologous costal grafts whereas the remainder used autografts from the knee. Outcome measures were heterogeneously reported. A significant improvement in Timmerman-Andrews scores from preoperatively to postoperatively was reported in 9 of 10 studies. Return-to-play rates to the preinjury level of competitive play ranged from 62% to 100% across 16 studies. Significant improvement in motion, most often extension, was noted in most studies. Reported complication, reoperation, and failure rates ranged from 0% to 11%, 0% to 26%, and 0% to 20%, respectively. When used, knee autografts resulted in low donor-site morbidity (Lysholm scores, 70-100).

CONCLUSIONS

OAT surgery for large, unstable OCD lesions of the capitellum reliably produced good outcomes, few complications, and a high rate of return to competitive play. Complications are relatively uncommon, and donor-site morbidity is low. Less is known about the performance of OCA given the paucity of available literature.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level II to IV studies.

Long-Term Outcomes of Arthroscopic Debridement With or Without Drilling for Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum in Adolescent Baseball Players: A ≥10-Year Follow-Up Study

PURPOSE

To evaluate the long-term clinical outcomes of arthroscopic debridement for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in adolescent baseball players.

METHODS

This retrospective study evaluated clinical outcomes of arthroscopic debridement for capitellar OCD in adolescent baseball players seen between 2003 and 2006. Inclusion criteria were at least 10 years of follow-up after surgery. Exclusion criteria were previous elbow surgery and age <12 years or >19 years. Patients were examined for presence of pain, inflammation (effusion), and range of motion. Outcome measures were determined using Timmerman/Andrews scores. Defect severity on preoperative radiographs was classified into 3 grades: small, moderate, and large. Return to baseball, pre- and postoperative range of motion and Timmerman/Andrews elbow score were evaluated according to defect severity.

RESULTS

Twenty-three elbows of 23 baseball players (mean age, 14.7 [range, 13-17] years) underwent arthroscopic debridement for capitellar OCD. Mean follow-up duration was 11.5 (range, 10-13) years. Twenty patients (87%) returned to competitive baseball at their preoperative level; of these, 15 were non-pitchers and returned to the same position but only 1 of 5 pitchers returned to playing pitcher. One patient with a large defect and drilling underwent reoperation 11 years after the initial operation. Mean change in extension was 4.3° and that in flexion was 3.7°. Timmerman/Andrews score improved significantly from 160 (95% confidence interval 146.7-173.3) to 195 (95% confidence interval 185.2-204.8) at the most recent follow-up (P ˂ .0001). Osteochondral defects detected on preoperative radiographs were small in 10 patients, moderate in 7, and large in 6. There was no significant between-group difference in extension, flexion, or Timmerman/Andrews score preoperatively or at the most recent follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

Arthroscopic debridement with or without drilling allowed return to play in adolescent baseball players for positions other than pitchers. Long-term outcomes are likely durable regardless of lesion size.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, Case series.

Encouraging mid-term outcomes for arthroscopic autologous osteochondral transplant (OAT) in capitellum osteochondritis dissecans (OCD)

PURPOSE

The primary outcomes are the evaluation and quantification of pain relief and improvement in range of motion after OAT in OCD. The secondary outcomes are: resuming of sport activities, evaluation of the ADL recovery rate and subjective evaluation of the quality of life improvement.

METHODS

Nine patients, affected by an unstable and non-acute OCD lesion of the capitulum humeri, have been treated by the same surgeon. The patient mean age was 22.4 (16-45 years). All subjects were treated with the same surgical technique (arthroscopic OAT from the same side knee, a single cylinder of 6.5-9 mm in diameter) and underwent the same rehabilitation. The mean follow-up was 48 months (30-52 months). The authors documented the clinical assessment of each patient and carried out a questionnaire which included the VAS scale, MEPS Score and Quick DASH score. Patients were asked for MRI and radiographs pre- and post-operatively at follow-up.

RESULTS

The mean range of motion improvement was 17.9° in extension (range 13°-27°) and 10.6° in flexion (range 0°-20°) The VAS mean improvement was 7.1 (range 6-8) and the mean post-op value 0.6 (range 0-3). The MEPS score mean post-operative value was 98.3 (range 85-100). The Quick-DASH mean post-operative value was 2.5 (range 0-9.1) with a mean improvement of 41.4 points (range 36.4-47.7 points). All patients resumed sports in 6 months post-operatively.

CONCLUSIONS

The autologous transplant of an osteochondral plug is a safe and promising procedure. Despite being more demanding, the arthroscopic approach is a valuable tool if the surgeon aims to reduce the invasiveness of the procedure, with all the consequent advantages.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE IV

Retrospective case series, therapeutic study.

Predictive Role of Symptom Duration Before the Initial Clinical Presentation of Adolescents With Capitellar Osteochondritis Dissecans on Preoperative and Postoperative Measures: A Systematic Review

Background:

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum is an increasingly recognized disease affecting young athletes. Because lesion progression is common, early identification is potentially beneficial for an athlete’s treatment and recovery. However, there is currently no analysis available that evaluates the impact of symptom duration on preoperative and postoperative outcomes.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review of surgically treated OCD lesions to examine the effect of symptom duration before the initial presentation on preoperative and postoperative outcomes. We hypothesized that a longer symptom duration would correlate with more severe preoperative signs and symptoms and poorer postoperative outcomes.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

Ovid MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and the Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects were queried for studies evaluating symptom duration before the clinical presentation of capitellar OCD and surgical outcomes. A systematic review was conducted according to PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines.

Results:

A total of 23 studies reporting outcomes in 258 patients (mean patient age, 14.4 ± 1.5 years) were analyzed. Locking as a chief complaint predominated in a greater proportion of patients who presented with a longer history of OCD symptoms (P = .007). A longer symptom duration also correlated with a longer time to return to sport (P = .008) and older age (P < .001). Range of motion limitations as both a chief complaint and a physical examination finding correlated with a longer symptom duration (P = .014 and .001, respectively). Symptom duration did not show a relationship with most postoperative outcomes, including the return-to-sport rate (P = .172), which ranged from 70.7% to 91.1% depending on the surgical procedure performed. No significant difference was observed between symptom duration and the surgical procedure performed (P = .376).

Conclusion:

Advanced OCD lesions were observed in patients with a longer symptom duration. However, treatment specifics rather than symptom duration correlated best with return to sport for patients with advanced OCD lesions requiring surgery. The earlier detection of capitellar OCD may be valuable in reducing the severity of lesions, the time to return to sport, and potential need for surgery in young athletes.

Arthroscopic Treatment of Capitellum Osteochondritis Dissecans With Micronized Allogeneic Cartilage Scaffold

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum is a common disorder that causes pain and functional limitation in the adolescent elbow. Although conservative management is the first line of treatment, surgical intervention is usually recommended for patients with persistent mechanical symptoms, loose bodies, or unstable lesions. Elbow arthroscopy has become the gold standard to evaluate and treat symptomatic OCD lesions. Arthroscopic debridement and bone marrow stimulation have been shown to yield good short-term results. Unfortunately, long-term follow-up has shown less favorable outcomes, with degenerative changes frequently documented. Current marrow stimulation techniques promote the formation of fibrocartilage, which is known to be less durable than hyaline cartilage. We describe an arthroscopic technique of debridement and drilling supplemented with a micronized allogeneic cartilage scaffold to address OCD lesions of the capitellum in an effort to promote hyaline cartilage formation.

Knee donor-site morbidity after mosaicplasty - a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Mosaicplasty has been associated with good short- to long-term results. Nevertheless, the osteochondral harvesting is restricted to the donor-site area available and it may lead to significant donor-site morbidity.

PURPOSE

Provide an overview of donor-site morbidity associated with harvesting of osteochondral plugs from the knee joint in mosaicplasty procedure.

METHODS

Comprehensive search using Pubmed, Cochrane Library, SPORTDiscus and CINAHL databases was carried out through 10th October of 2016. As inclusion criteria, all English-language studies that assessed the knee donor-site morbidity after mosaicplasty were accepted. The outcomes were the description and rate of knee donor-site morbidity, sample's and cartilage defect's characterization and mosaicplasty-related features. Correlation between mosaicplasty features and rate of morbidity was performed. The methodological and reporting quality were assessed according to Coleman's methodology score.

RESULTS

Twenty-one studies were included, comprising a total of 1726 patients, with 1473 and 268 knee and ankle cartilage defects were included. The defect size ranged from 0.85 cm2 to 4.9 cm2 and most commonly 3 or less plugs (averaging 2.9 to 9.4 mm) were used. Donor-site for osteochondral harvesting included margins of the femoral trochlea (condyles), intercondylar notch, patellofemoral joint and upper tibio-fibular joint. Mean donor-site morbidity was 5.9 % and 19.6 % for knee and ankle mosaicplasty procedures, respectively. Concerning knee-to-knee mosaicplasty procedures, the most common donor-site morbidity complaints were patellofemoral disturbances (22 %) and crepitation (31 %), and in knee-to-ankle procedures there was a clear tendency for pain or instability during daily living or sports activities (44 %), followed by patellofemoral disturbances, knee stiffness and persistent pain (13 % each). There was no significant correlation between rate of donor-site morbidity and size of the defect, number and size of the plugs (p > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Osteochondral harvesting in mosaicplasty often results in considerable donor-site morbidity. The donor-site morbidity for knee-to-ankle (16.9 %) was greater than knee-to-knee (5.9 %) mosaicplasty procedures, without any significant correlation between rate of donor-site morbidity and size of the defect, number and size of the plugs. Lack or imcomplete of donor-site morbidity reporting within the mosaicplasty studies is a concern that should be addressed in future studies.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, systematic review of Level I-IV studies.

Return to Sport After Operative Management of Osteochondritis Dissecans of the Capitellum: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Capitellar osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is commonly managed surgically in symptomatic adolesent throwers and gymnasts. Little is known about the impact that surgical technique has on return to sport.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the clinical outcomes and return-to-sport rates after operative management of OCD lesions in adolescent athletes.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

The PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, SPORTDiscus (EBSCO), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases were queried for studies evaluating outcomes and return to sport after surgical management of OCD of the capitellum. Two independent reviewers conducted a systematic review according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Studies reporting patient outcomes with return-to-sport data and minimum 6-month follow-up were included in the review.

RESULTS

After review, 24 studies reporting outcomes in 492 patients (mean age ± SD, 14.3 ± 0.9 years) were analyzed. The overall return-to-sport rate was 86% at a mean 5.6 months. Return to the highest preoperative level of sport was most common after osteochondral autograft procedures (94%) compared with debridement and marrow stimulation procedures (71%) or OCD fixation surgery (64%). Elbow range of motion improved by 15.9° after surgery. The Timmerman-Andrews subjective and objective scores significantly improved after surgery. Complications were low (<5%), with 2 cases of donor site morbidity after osteoarticular autograft transfer (OAT) autograft harvest. The most common indications for reoperation were repeat debridement/loose body removal.

CONCLUSION

A high rate of return to sport was observed after operative management of capitellar OCD. Patients were more likely to return to their highest level of preoperative sport after OAT autograft compared with debridement or fixation. Significant improvements in elbow range of motion and patient outcomes are seen with low complication rates after OCD surgery.

Short-term clinical results of arthroscopic osteochondral fixation for elbow osteochondritis dissecans in teenaged baseball players

BACKGROUND

Reports regarding arthroscopic fixation of the osteochondral fragments for elbow osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) are few. This study assessed the clinical outcomes of arthroscopic fixation of unstable osteochondral fragments by using absorbable pins over a postoperative period of at least 1 year.

METHODS

The patients were 13 adolescent baseball players with a mean age of 14 years (range, 12-16 years) who underwent OCD of primary lesions at International Cartilage Repair Society grades III and IV. The patients were evaluated by using validated outcome measures at a mean follow-up period of 24 months (range, 12-50 months).

RESULTS

The mean (standard deviation) score in the disability/symptom section of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand improved from 12.4 (6.0) before the surgery to 0.5 (1.2) after the surgery, and the sports section improved from 74.5 (25.4) to 1.4 (5.2). The mean (standard deviation) extension improved from -11° (10.8) to -2° (3.9; P < .001). The mean (SD) flexion improved from 129° (11.6) to 137° (5.6; P = .040). All patients were able to resume playing baseball, and 9 (69%) resumed playing at the same position as before their injuries.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical results of arthroscopic osteochondral fragment fixation in the teenaged baseball players with elbow OCD, albeit obtained over only a short period, were favorable. This arthroscopic treatment enables repair of lesions and is considered appropriate for unstable OCD during the adolescent growth spurt.

Treatment of osteochondral lesions in the elbow: results after autologous osteochondral transplantation

BACKGROUND

Osteochondral lesions in the elbow still remain a challenging field of surgery. In recent years promising clinical results were described for the osteochondral transplantation technique. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological outcome in the mid-term follow-up of a large cohort of patients following osteochondral transplantation in the elbow.

METHODS

18 patients with advanced osteochondral lesions of the elbow treated by autologous osteochondral autograft cylinders and a minimum follow-up of 36 months were included in the study. The Broberg-Morrey score (BMS) and the American Shoulder and Elbow score (ASES) were used to assess elbow function and pain, respectively. The joint status was analyzed using plain radiographs and MRI scans taken from all patients at recent follow-up. In addition, the ipsilateral knee joint was examined for donor-site morbidity using the Lysholm knee score.

RESULTS

14 patients were evaluated with a mean follow-up of 7 years (range 3-14 years). The mean BMS was 95.1 (range 72-100) points. The ASES score also showed promising results: pain at worst 1.5 (range 0-5) points, pain at rest 0.4 (range 0-5) points, pain lifting loads 2.8 (range 0-8) points, repetitive movement pain 1.5 (range 0-8) points. The range of motion of the injured elbow was free and equal to the contralateral side. Signs of osteoarthritis could be found on plain radiographs in three patients. The MRIs at follow-up showed graft viability in all patients. However, a slight incongruency of the chondral surface could be detected in two patients. The average Lysholm score was 90.9 (range 0-70) points.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteochondral transplantation in the elbow leads to both clinical and radiographic good-to-excellent mid-term results and therefore represents a reasonable treatment option for advanced osteochondral lesions in the elbow.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Retrospective study; Therapeutic Level IV.

[Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum in adolescents: report of a case and review of the literature]

L'osteochondrite disséquante du capitellum est une lésion rare. Elle est généralement attribuée à des microtraumatismes répétés ou à un accident ischémique. Nous en rapportons un cas chez un adolescent tennisman, traité chirurgicalement.

Technique: Osteochondral Grafting of Capitate Chondrosis in PRC

Background Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) is a useful treatment option for wrist arthritis, but the operation is contraindicated when there is arthritis of the capitate head. We describe a technique that involves resurfacing of a capitate that has focal chondrosis, using an osteochondral graft harvested from the resected carpal bones. Materials and Methods PRC patients who had a focal area of capitate chondrosis underwent osteochondral grafting of the capitate. Pre- and postoperative pain level, employment status, motion, grip strength, and Modified Mayo Wrist Scores (MMWS) were assessed. Postoperative Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores were also calculated. Description of Technique The articular surface of the capitate is assessed for need for grafting. The proximal row is resected with the lunate removed intact. The arthritic area is prepared. The graft is taken from the lunate and placed in the prepared site of the capitate. Results Eight patients (average age of 53 years) were followed for 18 months. Pain: Preoperatively, moderate to severe in 7 patients; postoperatively, mild to no pain in 7 patients. Motion: Preoperative, 84° (74% of the contralateral side); postoperative 75° (66%). Grip Strength: Preoperative, 29 kg (62%); postoperative, 34 kg (71%). Mayo Wrist Score: Preoperative, 51 (poor); postoperative, 68 (fair). Average postoperative DASH score was 19.5. Follow-up radiographs showed that 75% of patients had mild to no degeneration. Conclusions Osteochondral grafting in PRC offers satisfactory results in terms of pain relief, return to work, motion, and grip strength. Level of Evidence Therapeutic IV, Case series.

Mapping of cartilage depth in the knee and elbow for use in osteochondral autograft procedures

BACKGROUND

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow is a problematic condition that affects a fair number of young athletes. One treatment option is the use of osteochondral autografts, which are commonly taken from donor sites on the less weightbearing surfaces of the knee.

PURPOSE

To use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to assess the cartilage depths of sites in the knee and elbow that are commonly used as donor and recipient sites to optimize depth matching for osteochondral autograft procedures.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive laboratory study.

METHODS

All knee and elbow MRI scans acquired from 3-T machines in patients aged 16 to 25 years within a single hospital system were reviewed. Studies were excluded if there had been previous surgery on the joint or if there were significant chondral defects in the areas to be measured. All cartilage depth measurements were independently performed by 3 different physicians to the nearest 0.01 mm. At the elbow, 6 locations on the capitellum and 2 on the trochlea were chosen. At the knee, 4 locations along the anterior-lateral femoral condyle, 5 surrounding the intercondylar notch, and 1 on both the medial- and lateral-posterior femoral condyles were chosen.

RESULTS

There were 111 knee MRI (74 male, 37 female) and 94 elbow MRI (85 male, 9 female) scans that met all inclusion criteria. The average cartilage depths from each investigator were then averaged to provide an overall mean depth at each location. All average cartilage depths within the knee were thicker than those in the elbow, where the averaged mean thickness of all the 8 measured sites was 1.27 mm (range, 0.78-1.63 mm). Within the knee, the thinnest areas of cartilage, and therefore closest matches, were discovered at the posterior pole of the medial femoral condyle (mean ± SD, 1.95 ± 0.46 mm) and at the distal-most anterior-lateral femoral condyle (1.85 ± 0.46 mm). The average variance between the mean cartilage depths measured by each investigator for each location was 0.12 mm in the elbow and 0.22 mm in the knee.

CONCLUSION

Average cartilage depths in the knee were thicker than those in the elbow at all sites measured. The thinnest areas in the knee were the posterior aspect of the medial femoral condyle and the distal-most aspect of the anterior-lateral femoral condyle.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

This study provides the surgeon with meaningful data on average cartilage depths at common donor sites in the knee and recipient sites in the elbow.

Magnetic resonance imaging after arthroscopic microfracture of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans

BACKGROUND

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum affects young athletes involved in elbow load-bearing activities. Unstable lesions are best managed surgically, although debate remains regarding the optimal method. Arthroscopic treatment allows rapid recovery, but the effect on the articular surface is undetermined.

HYPOTHESIS

The clinical outcome after arthroscopic microfracture of stage III/IV capitellum OCD would be successful in terms of return to sport and restoration of function, and there would be some evidence of articular restoration or repair.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

We reviewed records of 10 consecutive adolescent patients (age ≤18 years) with stage III or IV OCD lesions of the capitellum managed with arthroscopic microfracture. The mean age at the time of surgery was 13.9 years (range, 10.8-18.5 years); 7 patients were skeletally immature and 3 were skeletally mature. Pre- and postoperative functional assessment included active range of motion, Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), and Timmerman/Andrews elbow score. All patients underwent plain radiographic and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation at a minimum of 12 months (mean, 27 months; range, 12-49 months) and clinical evaluation at a minimum of 24 months (mean, 42 months; range, 27-54 months) after surgery.

RESULTS

The mean range of motion improved in both flexion (135.8°→140.7°, P = .112) and extension (20.4°→-2.2°, P = .005). The mean MEPS (70.5→97, P = .007) and Timmerman/Andrews elbow scores (116.4→193.0, P = .008) improved significantly. magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) evaluation demonstrated an improvement in overall joint congruence and the formation of a reparative articular surface in 8 of 10 (80%) patients. No reoperations or major complications were encountered. Six of 8 patients involved in competitive athletics returned to the same level of participation at an average of 5.1 months.

CONCLUSION

Arthroscopic OCD fragment excision and capitellar microfracture demonstrates good to excellent functional results in short-term follow-up. Follow-up MRI suggests potential for a reparative fibrocartilaginous articular surface. Longer term follow-up is necessary to determine durability of the technique.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow: excellent results in teenage athletes treated by arthroscopic debridement and microfracture

Aim

To extend the microfracture procedure, which has been proven successful on osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions in the knee and ankle, to OCD lesions in the elbow.

Methods

Nine young patients were treated by arthroscopic debridement and microfracture by a single surgeon. The average age at operation was 15.0 years (median 15; range 12-19). The average length of the follow-up was 5.3 years (median 5; range 2-9). The follow-up included physical examination and patient interview with elbow function scoring. Success of treatment was determined according to pre-operative and follow-up Mayo Elbow Performance Index scores and the patients’ return to sports.

Results

Eight patients scored excellent results on the follow-up and 1 scored a good result. Four out of 9 patients were able to increase their training intensity, 2 returned to the same level of activity, 2 changed sports (due to reasons unrelated to the health of their elbow), and 1 left professional sports and started training only recreationally. No patients stopped participating in sports altogether.

Conclusions

We advocate arthroscopic microfracturing, followed by a strict rehabilitation regime, as a highly effective treatment for OCD of the humeral capitellum.

Distribution of bone mineral density at osteochondral donor sites in the patellofemoral joint among baseball players and controls

BACKGROUND

To theoretically minimize complications of osteochondral graft harvest from the knee, grafts should be obtained from the site of lowest stress distribution across the joint.

HYPOTHESIS

Long-term stress distribution over the patellofemoral (PF) joint surface is not equal in athletes.

STUDY DESIGN

Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.

METHODS

Measurement of subchondral bone density can determine long-term resultant stress acting on an articular surface in living joints. Our analysis was performed using computed tomography (CT) image data obtained from bilateral knees of 10 college baseball fielders (fielder group) and 10 college baseball pitchers (pitcher group) and 2 control groups, including 10 college soccer players (soccer group) and 10 nonathletes (nonathlete group). The distribution pattern of subchondral bone density throughout the articular surface of the PF joint was assessed using the CT osteoabsorptiometry method. The quantitative analysis focused on the location of the low-density area at the articular surface to assess potential osteochondral donor sites.

RESULTS

All participants in the pitcher and fielder groups demonstrated a low-density area widely distributed in the proximal part of the lateral trochlea. On the other hand, a high-density area was located in the distal part of the lateral notch, of the medial notch, and of the medial trochlea. No apparent differences in the distribution pattern were found between the baseball groups and the control groups.

CONCLUSION

Our analysis, based on CT osteoabsorptiometry, indicates that the proximal lateral trochlea of the distal femur has the highest percentage area of low bone density at the PF joint level in donor knees of baseball players, soccer players, and nonathlete controls.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

From a biomechanical viewpoint, the proximal lateral trochlea is the optimal site for harvesting osteochondral grafts in performing mosaicplasty for baseball players. This selection for the donor site may minimize postoperative PF joint symptoms.

Osteochondral transplantation in the elbow leads to good clinical and radiologic long-term results: an 8- to 14-year follow-up examination

BACKGROUND

In the long-term follow-up after debridement, microfracture, or drilling of osteochondral lesions in the elbow, subsequent osteoarthritis is a problem. Osteochondral transplantation for these defects has become a more common procedure. However, long-term results are unknown.

PURPOSE

This study was undertaken to evaluate long-term clinical and radiologic outcomes of advanced osteochondral lesions in the elbow treated with osteochondral transplantation.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

The study included 8 patients with osteochondral lesions in the elbow who were treated by autologous osteochondral transplantation between 1996 and 2002. Patients (average age, 17 years) were evaluated pre- and postoperatively by Broberg-Morrey score to assess elbow function and by American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score for pain analysis. In addition, radiographs (at the first postoperative day, and at 5-year and 10-year follow-up) and magnetic resonance images (8 to 12 weeks postoperatively, and at 5-year and 10-year follow-up) were made to evaluate the joint status. At last follow-up (range, 8-14 years postoperatively), 7 of 8 patients were seen for clinical examination and radiologic analysis.

RESULTS

The Broberg-Morrey score increased from an average of 75.9 ± 13.1 to 96.4 ± 2.4 and ASES score significantly improved as follows: worst pain, 7.9 ± 1.1 to 1.6 ± 1.9; rest pain, 3.14 ± 2.7 to 0.6 ± 1.5; weight-lifting pain, 7.6 ± 0.8 to 3.1 ± 1.6; and repetitive movement pain, 5.3 ± 2.4 to 1.6 ± 1.5. Compared with the contralateral side, there was a mean preoperative flexion lag of 12.5° ± 11.6°. At the final follow-up, flexion was free. The mean extension lag was reduced from average 5.4° ± 5.7° to 0°. Radiographs of 2 patients made at final follow-up showed mild signs of osteoarthritis (Kellgren and Lawrence grade I). Postoperative magnetic resonance images showed graft viability in all and a congruent chondral surface in 6 of 7 patients.

CONCLUSION

Clinical long-term results after osteochondral transplantation in the elbow are good to excellent and comparable with midterm results in the literature. Therefore, this technique is a reliable option for satisfactory long-term results regarding treatment of advanced osteochondral lesions in the elbow.

Arthroscopic surgery in athletes with osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow

PURPOSE

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow is an avascular necrosis of the articular cartilage and underlying subchondral bone that occurs in the capitellum. The purpose of this review is to evaluate the results of arthroscopic surgery, including debridement, fragment fixation, micro-fracturing, and osteochondral autografting, in athletes with OCD of the elbow.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, EMBASE, and the Cochrane library using the following main terms: osteochondritis dissecans, elbow, and surgical intervention. The 9 selected articles were criticized by use of a quality assessment tool derived from the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) Working Group.

RESULTS

The included studies had low methodologic quality and showed satisfactory results regarding pain, return to sports, and elbow function.

CONCLUSIONS

This review suggests that surgical treatment must be contemplated after a period of unsuccessful conservative therapy for athletes with OCD. Nevertheless, larger studies with enhanced methodologic quality and longer follow-up should be performed to support this conclusion.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III, systematic review of Level IV studies.

The clinical outcomes of mosaicplasty in the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the distal humeral capitellum of young athletes

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical outcomes of mosaicplasty in the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the distal humeral capitellum.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2003 and 2007, 10 patients (6 female and 4 male patients), with a mean age at surgery of 18 years (range, 13 to 27 years), with advanced lesions of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans underwent mosaicplasties. The surgical technique involves transplanting small-sized cylindrical osteochondral grafts from the lateral periphery of the femoral condyle at the level of the patellofemoral joint to the defect of the capitellum. At a mean follow-up of 30 months, all elbows were assessed with the Mayo Elbow Performance Score and a modified functional elbow score (Constant).

RESULTS

Postoperative radiographs and control magnetic resonance imaging/computed tomography images showed incorporation of the subchondral cortex in all patients. All but 2 patients were completely pain free after surgery. Of the patients, 8 (80%) had no reduction in range of motion. By use of the Mayo Elbow Performance Score, the injured elbow had a preoperative mean score of 71 points (range, 55 to 85 points) and increased significantly to a mean score of 93.5 points (range, 85 to 100 points) postoperatively (P = .0005, paired t test). The nonoperative elbows had a mean score of 100 points, whereas the operated elbows had a mean score of 93.5 points. The functional elbow score showed a mean difference of 7.5 points between the operated and nonoperative elbows. No infection or neurologic deficit developed after surgery in any case.

CONCLUSIONS

Autologous osteochondral mosaicplasty for advanced lesions of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans can provide satisfactory clinical and radiographic results.

Functional recovery of the donor knee after autologous osteochondral transplantation for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans

BACKGROUND

Osteochondral autograft transplantation has been advocated to treat severe osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum in throwing athletes to reproduce the normal hyaline cartilage and achieve long-term elbow function. Although some authors have reported good outcomes, the current authors are concerned about functional recovery of the donor knee after osteochondral grafts have been harvested.

PURPOSE

The present prospective study analyzed functional recovery of the donor knee after osteochondral graft harvest.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Twelve male patients (average age at surgery, 14.4 years) had severe osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum treated with osteochondral autograft transplantation from the contralateral knee joint. The donor knee of each patient was assessed for pain (visual analog scale), joint effusion, Lysholm score, radiographic findings, and muscle strength (60 and 180 deg/sec).

RESULTS

At 3 months after surgery, 10 patients were pain-free (visual analog scale score, 0); none had knee joint effusion; and 10 gained 100 points in the Lysholm score. However, muscle power (60 deg/sec) of the knee extensor revealed 8 patients with reduced muscle strength at 3 months compared with the preoperative level, although 11 patients reached preoperative knee extensor muscle strength at 12 months. Radiographic findings at 24 months showed that none of the patients had knee osteoarthritis.

CONCLUSION

A time lag was evident in recovery between postoperative symptoms and muscle power at 3 months. However, harvesting osteochondral grafts did not exert adverse effects on donor knee function in young athletes at 2 years after undergoing osteochondral autograft transplantation for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum: a review of the literature and a distal ulnar portal

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the humeral capitellum most commonly affects young athletes engaged in sports that repetitively stress the elbow. It is characterized by localized injury of subchondral bone of the humeral capitellum. To determine the best treatment option for OCD in young athletes, it is important to differentiate between stable and unstable OCD lesions. Stable lesions can be treated with rest, whereas unstable lesions, as well stable lesions that do not respond to conservative therapy, may require a surgical approach. Magnetic resonance imaging is the diagnostic study of choice to evaluate capitellar OCD lesions and loose bodies and to accurately determine the stability and viability of the OCD fragment. A variety of surgical approaches have been reported, from internal fixation of large fragments to autologous chondrocyte grafts. Arthroscopic surgery is becoming the standard treatment of capitellar OCD. This minimally invasive approach shows good results, a low risk of operative morbidity, and early recuperation postoperatively. The distal ulnar portal we describe here allows for ergonomic exposure to the posterolateral capitellum, providing easier access for drilling, burring, and local debridement of lesions amenable to arthroscopy.

Osteochondral lesions of the capitellum do not affect elbow kinematics and stability with intact collateral ligaments: an in vitro biomechanical study

PURPOSE

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the capitellum most commonly affects adolescent pitchers and gymnasts, who present with pain and mechanical symptoms. Patients with larger lesions have poorer outcomes, possibly related to increased contact pressures on the surrounding articular surface with or without instability. The purpose of this in vitro study was to determine whether displaced OCD lesions of the capitellum lead to altered kinematics and stability of the elbow.

METHODS

We mounted 9 fresh-frozen cadaveric arms in an upper extremity joint testing system, with cables attaching the tendons of the major muscles to motors and pneumatic actuators. An electromagnetic receiver on the ulna enabled quantification of the kinematics of the radius and ulna with respect to the humerus. We used 3-dimensional computed tomography scans and computer-assisted techniques to navigate sequential osteochondral defects ranging in size from 12.5% to 100% of the capitellum. The arms were subjected to active and passive flexion in both the vertical and valgus positions with the forearm in both pronation and supination.

RESULTS

We found no significant differences in valgus angulation or ulnar rotation between any of the OCD lesions and the intact elbow during flexion, regardless of arm position or forearm rotation.

CONCLUSIONS

Osteochondritis dissecans lesions of the capitellum, both small and large, did not alter the ulnohumeral kinematics and stability with intact collateral ligaments. Therefore, excision of unfixable osteochondral fragments of the capitellum in the setting of intact collateral ligaments can be considered without the risk of creating instability.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum: minimum 1-year follow-up after arthroscopic debridement

PURPOSE

The purpose of our study is to show that arthroscopic debridement is an appropriate intervention for midterm to long-term subjective symptom relief of osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow.

METHODS

A retrospective case series of 13 patients undergoing arthroscopic treatment of OCD of the elbow over a 10-year period was studied. Patients were assessed with a mean follow-up of 3.6 years (range, 12 months to 8 years). The disability/symptom section of the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) was used to measure patient-reported outcome. Additional questions were used to assess other injuries to the elbow and return to sports activities.

RESULTS

Of 13 patients, 8 reported participating in repetitive valgus stress sports associated with overhead throwing. Two participated in gymnastics. Ten patients provided follow-up data greater than 1 year after surgical intervention. The mean follow-up DASH score for surgically treated patients was 8.6 (range, 0.0 to 22.41). Four patients reported a complete return to their sports activities, and six reported complete cessation of at least 1 sport. By use of intraoperative reports, the OCD lesions were graded according to the Classification System for OCD Lesions established by the American Sports Medicine Institute. No difference in mean DASH score between grades was found.

CONCLUSIONS

In our small group of patients, arthroscopic debridement of OCD of the capitellum resulted in a functional elbow with subjective symptom relief for the majority of patients, as evidenced by DASH scores. However, despite a functional outcome, many patients reported ceasing at least some sporting activities because of their elbow.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level IV, therapeutic case series.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum

Osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum is a well-recognized cause of elbow pain and disability in the adolescent athlete. This condition typically affects young athletes, such as throwers and gymnasts, involved in high-demand, repetitive overhead, or weightbearing activities. The true cause, natural history, and optimal treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum remain unknown. Suspicion of this condition warrants investigation with proper radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging. Prompt recognition of this disorder and institution of nonoperative treatment for early, stable lesions can result in healing with later resumption of sporting activities. Patients with unstable lesions or those failing nonoperative therapy require operative intervention with treatment based on lesion size and extent. Historically, surgical treatment included arthrotomy with loose body removal and curettage of the residual osteochondral defect base. The introduction of elbow arthroscopy in the treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum permits a thorough lesion assessment and evaluation of the entire elbow joint with the ability to treat the lesion and coexistent pathology in a minimally invasive fashion. Unfortunately, the prognosis for advanced lesions remains more guarded, but short-term results after newer reconstruction techniques are promising.

Osteochondral mosaicplasty as a treatment method for bilateral avascular necrosis of the long finger metacarpal: case report

Avascular necrosis of the metacarpal head is a rare condition known to occur in conjunction with repetitive trauma, systemic lupus erythematosus, and the use of steroids. This clinical case reports a 31-year-old man with bilateral long finger metacarpal head avascular necrosis, treated with osteochondral mosaicplasty.

Intraoperative acoustic evaluation of living human cartilage of the elbow and knee during mosaicplasty for osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow: an in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Autologous osteochondral mosaicplasty for osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum is being used increasingly in adolescent patients. Little research has been published on the material properties of living human cartilage of the elbow and knee.

HYPOTHESIS

The cartilage of the osteochondritis dissecans lesion is detected as degenerated by ultrasound. The material properties of the cartilage of the intact part of the elbow are not different from those of the intact knee except in thickness.

STUDY DESIGN

Descriptive laboratory study.

METHODS

The authors studied 10 young male athletes with osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum who underwent mosaicplasty. An acoustic probe was used for measurement, and the wavelet transform method was used. Three parameters were used: signal intensity (index of cartilage stiffness), signal duration (index of roughness), and signal interval (index of thickness).

RESULTS

The cartilage of the osteochondritis dissecans lesion had lower signal intensity than did the intact part of the capitellum. The cartilage of the radial head opposite the capitellum had significantly lower signal intensity and higher signal duration than did other sites. The signal intensity of the radial head was significantly higher in early-stage patients than in late-stage patients, although the macroscopic view was almost all intact. The signal intensity of the plug was decreased significantly after grafting.

CONCLUSION

The osteochondritis dissecans lesion had lower signal intensity than did the intact part of the capitellum. Although the macroscopic view looked intact, the radial head cartilage was degenerated as measured acoustically.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Not only the cartilage of the capitellum but the cartilage of the radial head are acoustically degenerated in osteochondritis dissecans patients. Plugs might be damaged in the transplanting procedure, and further follow-up is necessary.

[Osteochondral autograft for osteochondritis dissecans of the capitulum in adolescent: report of six cases and review of the literature]

PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

We present the cases of six adolescents (four high-level gymnastics specialists) with osteochondritis dissecans of the capitulum who were treated with an en bloc osteochondral autograft. There are few series of this rare condition reported in the literature.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

All six patients presented pain over the lateral aspect of the elbow and limited extension; pronosupination was unaffected. Physical examination and plain X-rays enabled the diagnosis of osteochondritis dissecans. Postoperative X-rays confirmed good integration of the bone graft. These patients underwent lateral arthrotomy for curettage and avivement followed by an en bloc grafting. The graft was harvested from the homolateral knee via minimal arthrotomy, from a non-weight-bearing zone of the lateral condyle.

RESULTS

At three months, complete pain-free range of motion was achieved in four of six patients. Graft integration was confirmed in all six patients on the three months plain X-rays, arthro-CT, or MRI. The four gymnastic specialists resumed their high-level sports activities at one year (at six months for one of them).

DISCUSSION

Various surgical methods have been proposed. Series reported in the literature, like ours, have been small, with short follow-up. We have observed good results with an en bloc graft, encouraging us to continue with this surgical strategy.

A new arthroscopic-assisted drilling method through the radius in a distal-to-proximal direction for osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow

We developed a new arthroscopic-assisted drilling method through the radius in a distal-to-proximal direction for osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the elbow. Only 1 drill hole is created in the radius by use of a single 1.8-mm K-wire inserted from the shaft of the radius approximately 3 cm distal to the humeroradial joint into the joint, which allows drilling of the entire OCD lesion. The forearm is supinated so that the tip of the K-wire is at the lateral side of the lesion in the humeral capitellum, and drilling is performed at 30 degrees elbow flexion. The flexion angle is changed from 30 degrees to 60 degrees to 90 degrees to 120 degrees while maintaining supination, to drill in 4 sites (1 site for each angle of flexion) of the lateral side of the OCD lesion. Next, we move the forearm from supination to pronation so that the tip of the K-wire is placed in the medial side of the lesion in the humeral capitellum, and as with the lateral side, drilling is performed in 4 sites. With this technique, the entire OCD lesion can be vertically drilled under arthroscopic guidance. This method is minimally invasive, and an early return to sports could be possible.

Donor site evaluation after autologous osteochondral mosaicplasty for cartilaginous lesions of the elbow joint

BACKGROUND

One significant disadvantage of autologous osteochondral mosaicplasty (mosaicplasty) is the harvesting of osteochondral grafts from the normal articular area of the knee joint. However, the effect of harvesting grafts on knee function remains unclear.

PURPOSE

To clarify the functional effects on the donor knee of harvesting osteochondral grafts and to perform magnetic resonance imaging evaluation of donor site repair after mosaicplasty for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans in young athletes.

STUDY DESIGN

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

METHODS

Eleven male competitive athletes with advanced lesions of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans underwent mosaicplasties. The surgical technique involves obtaining small-sized cylindrical osteochondral grafts from the lateral periphery of the femoral condyle at the level of the patellofemoral joint and transplanting them to osteochondral defects in the capitellum. Assessment at a mean follow-up of 26 months included local findings of the donor knees, a Lysholm knee scoring scale, International Knee Documentation Committee standard evaluation form, and magnetic resonance imaging evaluation.

RESULTS

All patients returned to a competitive level of their previous sports without any donor site disturbances. Based on the Lysholm knee score and International Knee Documentation Committee evaluation form, all knees were graded as excellent and normal, respectively. The magnetic resonance imaging showed 50% to 100% defect fill in 6 of 9 patients and normal or nearly normal signals in 4 patients at the donor sites.

CONCLUSION

No adverse effects of osteochondral graft harvest on donor knee function were found after mosaicplasty for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans in young athletes. However, magnetic resonance imaging indicates that the donor site is resurfaced with fibrous tissue.

Osteochondral resurfacing (OCRPRC) for capitate chondrosis in proximal row carpectomy

PURPOSE

Proximal row carpectomy (PRC) can be an effective treatment option for arthritis of the wrist, but the operation is contraindicated when there is substantial arthritis of the capitate head. We describe a new technique that involves resurfacing of the capitate when there is chondrosis by using osteochondral grafts harvested from the resected carpal bones. The purpose of this study was to assess the outcomes of patients who had osteochondral resurfacing in the setting of PRC (OCRPRC) for capitate chondrosis and to determine how they compare with published results of conventional PRC.

METHODS

Patients having PRC who had grade II to IV (Modified Outerbridge Scale) capitate chondrosis underwent osteochondral resurfacing of the capitate. Preoperative and postoperative pain level, employment status, range of motion (ROM), grip strength, and Mayo wrist scores were assessed, and Student's t-test was used. Postoperative Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) scores were also calculated.

RESULTS

Eight patients with an average age of 53 years were followed up for 18 months. Preoperatively, 7 patients described their pain as moderate to severe; postoperatively, 7 patients described their pain as mild to no pain. Preoperative arc of motion was 84 degrees (74% of the contralateral side); postoperative arc of motion was 75 degrees (66% of the contralateral side). Preoperative grip strength was 29 kg, or 62% of the contralateral side; postoperative grip strength was 34 kg, or 71% of the contralateral side. Preoperative Mayo wrist score was 51 ("poor"); postoperative Mayo wrist score was 68 ("fair"). Average postoperative DASH score was 19.5. Follow-up radiographs showed that 75% of patients had mild to no degeneration. Magnetic resonance imaging at 21 months postoperatively showed graft incorporation. No complications were encountered.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results with osteochondral resurfacing compare favorably with the published results of conventional PRC in terms of pain relief, employment status, ROM, and grip strength.

Technique of osteochondral autograft transplantation mosaicplasty for capitellar osteochondritis dissecans

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) is a localized condition affecting an articular surface that involves separation of a segment of cartilage and subchondral bone. It is found primarily in the knee, ankle, and elbow joints. Various theories about its etiology have been proposed, but the exact etiology of OCD still remains obscure. Osteochondritis dissecans of the elbow is characterized by pain, swelling, and limitation of motion, usually in adolescence through early adulthood. An uncommon clinical entity, it occurs as a result of overuse injuries, especially throwing activities. The treatment of OCD has evolved from the removal of loose bodies to the resurfacing of defects with an osteochondral autogenous graft (mosaicplasty). Mosaicplasty is a relatively new and viable option for the treatment of advanced OCD of the capitellum. In this article, we describe the technique of mosaicplasty for OCD of the capitellum.

Dual direct lateral portals for treatment of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum: an anatomic study

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to quantify the distance of dual direct lateral (posterolateral radiocapitellar) arthroscopic portals to the lateral ligamentous structures and to report the percentage of capitellum accessible through these portals.

METHODS

Arthroscopy was performed on 10 fresh-frozen cadaveric elbows via a standard 6-portal approach. The portals included dual direct lateral portals created in the posterolateral soft spot. The arthroscope was placed through one direct lateral portal; an arthroscopic electrocautery device was placed through the other direct lateral portal and was used to mark all accessible areas of the capitellum. Open dissection allowed measurement of the distances of the portals from the lateral ligamentous structures, as well as determination of the percentage of capitellum accessible through these portals.

RESULTS

The more ulnar of the dual lateral portals averaged 9.1 mm from the lateral ulnar collateral ligament, 11.5 mm from the annular ligament, and 13.1 mm from the radial collateral ligament. The more radial of the dual lateral portals averaged 1.5 mm, 9.7 mm, and 7.0 mm from these ligaments, respectively. Seventy-eight percent of the capitellum was accessible for instrumentation with these portals.

CONCLUSIONS

Correct placement of dual direct lateral portals does not disrupt the lateral ligamentous complex and allows access to a large portion of the capitellum.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Use of dual direct lateral portals is safe and practical for arthroscopic treatment of capitellar osteochondritis dissecans.