Articular Cartilage injuries/Loose Bodies

Articular Cartilage injuries/Loose Bodies - acute trauma or gradual deterioration involving the cartilage surface on the end of the bones. Associated injuries from a trauma can include meniscus, ligament, or bone injury.

Progressive gradual deterioration of the articular cartilage is the earliest form of degenerative arthritis. If the articular cartilage breaks free, it can grow in the joint and lead to formation of loose bodies. Signs/symptoms include pain, swelling, mechanical symptoms of catching or locking, loss of knee motion or function.

Treatment

Treatment is conservative or nonsurgical initially if the symptoms are not too severe and include anti-inflammatory medicines, physical therapy, and activity modification.

Surgery

Surgical treatment is generally required for mechanical symptoms and includes arthroscopic removal of loose bodies or removal of unstable flaps of cartilage. If the cartilage tear extends into the bone, then a procedure called microfracture to increase blood flow and stimulate new healing fibrocartilage is an option. Of note, more damage to the cartilage leads to a progression in the degenerative arthritic process.