What is a chondral defect in the knee?
A chondral defect refers to damage to the articular cartilage located at the end of bones. Articular cartilage is an elastic, smooth, soft tissue which allows bones to interact with each other without friction or pain. It acts as a shock absorber for force applied to the joint during movement. Specific to the knee joint, damage can occur at the end of the femur (thigh bone), the proximal tibia (lower leg bone), or the posterior aspect of the patella (kneecap). Although symptoms may not appear until later in life, articular cartilage problems are very common. Most often osteoarthritis develops when this smooth, gliding surface on the end of the bone has lost its cushioning, deformity develops, and bone rubs on bone. Boulder, Colorado, orthopedic knee and sports medicine specialist, Dr. Austin Chen specializes in treating chondral defects.
What is the cause of a chondral defect in the knee?
Damage to articular cartilage may occur gradually as individuals age or acutely as the result of trauma to the joint. Once a cartilage defect is present, subsequent bone-on-bone contact may occur, causing pain and further tearing. What is the treatment of a chondral defect in the knee? Depending on the individual case, Dr. Chen may suggest surgery in order to remove painful cartilage and restore injured cartilage. A discussion with Dr. Chen will help determine what is best for your situation.
