Description
This session features a panel discussion on osteochondritis and osteochondral defects in adolescent knees, led by Anish Sanghrajka. The presentation highlights the importance of recognizing which cases require treatment and the appropriate interventions. Anish introduces his expert panel, comprising Jo Dartnell, Iain McNamara, and Nick Nicolaou, who share insights from their practices and experiences. The discussion shifts to a case involving an 11-year-old girl with left-sided knee pain after gymnastics, emphasizing the vague pain often associated with osteochondral defects and how it manifests differently in patients.
Nick discusses the diagnosis, advocating for conservative management as most osteochondral defects can heal naturally, while also considering individual circumstances such as the patient's level of activity and response to treatment. The panel expresses the need for accurate imaging to determine the best treatment plans, comparing the effectiveness of plain films versus MRI for diagnosing conditions like osteochondritis. The conversation also touches on variations in management strategies, with differing opinions on the timeline and methods for returning young athletes to sports.
Throughout the session, the panelists discuss surgical options, classification systems for lesions, and technical aspects of procedures such as drilling and securing loose chondral flaps, showing the complexity and evolving nature of treating knee injuries in adolescents. This comprehensive dialogue provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals dealing with pediatric orthopedic cases.