Yvette (54) a journalist from Kent, started experiencing pain in her hip seven years ago in 2015. An ex-national gymnast who had been incredibly active and flexible her whole life, Yvette felt concerned about the growing discomfort impacting her quality of life, and so sought help from her GP.
Osteochondral defects
DAMAGE TO THE CARTILAGE AND BONE IN COMBINATION
A condition resulting from a sprained ankle which has failed to settle, creating long-term pain and instability
About osteochondral defects
An osteochondral defect is a localised area of surface cartilage damage. This also involves the underlying bone (osteo) beneath the surface cartilage and the overlying shock absorbing surface cartilage (chondral) itself.
Need to know
Generally pain and swelling are the main symptom, however pain related to physical activities can also be a symptom when there is a history of previous trauma. The pain is usually felt on the weight bearing side, though not always, localised to the side of the joint on which the osteochondral defect exists. It is also not uncommon to have feelings of pain related instability from the joint, despite the fact that the ligaments are all working.
Your consultant will be able to determine the degree of disruption, it can be challenging to diagnose an osteochondral defect at the time of injury, as scans may miss the damage because they are masked by the sprain or trauma that caused the injury.
The damage can range from bruising, to a crater or deep defect on the surface of the joint, lacking the underlying bone as well as cartilage. An osteochondral defect may or may not progress to osteoarthritis and a decision to have treatment will depend upon just how persistent and painful your symptoms may be.
A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scan may be required.
Your consultant will discuss treatment options to determine the best approach for you. Possible surgical treatments might include:
- arthroscopic trimming or a micro-fracture procedure, to encourage new cartilage to form
- autologous cartilage transplantation (ACI/ACT)
- mosaicplasty or OATS
- stem cell treatments
These treatments may have a role for defects that have not responded to arthroscopic debridement.
Patient stories
Yvette's story: From back pain to hip replacement surgery
A new hip and straight back into the spin of things
David’s gym video shows him repeatedly pushing up to 100kg on a single leg press – not particularly unusual for this keen cyclist, former competitive squash player and all-round fitness enthusiast. What is unusual is that 52-year-old David had hip surgery just 12 weeks earlier.
Michael's MAKO hip surgery to treat his arthritis
73 year-old Michael, an avid walker and charity worker, was diagnosed with arthritis in January 2021. After facing long waiting times and increasing pain that was becoming more frequent, he started to look elsewhere for treatment.
This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.