Cartilage Injuries of the Knee

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Cartilage injuries are a common cause of knee pain, swelling, and reduced joint function, and are distinct from osteoarthritis. These injuries can occur due to trauma, sports activity, or underlying structural issues within the knee.

One recognised cause is osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), a condition where a fragment of cartilage and underlying bone separates from the femur or patella. This is often associated with abnormal joint loading or alignment. Treatment for OCD depends on severity, with mild cases managed conservatively through activity modification, while more advanced lesions may require surgical reconstruction.

Cartilage damage can also occur following patella dislocation, ACL injury, or other knee trauma. Smaller defects may be managed without surgery, while larger or symptomatic lesions may require procedures such as cartilage repair or reconstruction, tailored to the patient’s age, activity level, and functional goals.

Cartilage injuries remain one of the most challenging conditions in orthopaedics due to the limited healing capacity of cartilage. As a result, this area continues to be a major focus of ongoing research and advanced surgical techniques aimed at joint preservation and long-term knee health.