Elbow OCD
What are Elbow OCD Lesions?
The elbow is a hinge joint made up of three bones: the humerus (upper arm bone), the ulna, and the radius (two forearm bones). On the humerus, a rounded protrusion known as the capitellum articulates with the head of the radius, enabling bending and straightening of the elbow and rotation of the forearm.
Osteochondritis Dissecans, or OCD, refers to a condition where a small segment of bone begins to separate from its surrounding region due to a lack of blood supply. As a result, the small piece of bone and the cartilage covering it begin to crack and loosen, forming a lesion. In the elbow, this usually occurs on the capitellum, a part of the elbow’s joint surface.
As a fellowship trained elbow surgeon, Dr. Ben Mayo has expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of elbow osteochondritis dissecans (OCD). Dr. Mayo offers comprehensive care to patients in the Detroit area with elbow pain. If you are in need of an orthopedic elbow surgeon, contact Dr. Ben Mayo and his team today to be seen at one of his offices in Livonia or Sterling Heights.
Elbow OCD lesions are typically seen in adolescents and young adults participating in sports that involve a significant amount of throwing or repetitive arm use. The exact cause is unknown, but repeated stress to the elbow joint, leading to microfractures and compromised blood flow, is believed to be a factor. Trauma to the elbow may cause OCD lesions as well.
Initial symptoms might include pain and swelling on the outer part of the elbow, often after activity. As the condition progresses, patients might experience stiffness, limited range of motion, a catching or locking sensation in the elbow, and elbow instability.
Non-displaced OCD lesions, where the piece of bone is still in place, can sometimes heal on their own with rest and avoidance of stressful activities. However, displaced lesions, where the bone fragment has loosened or detached completely, generally require surgical intervention.
Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and confirmed with imaging studies such as X-rays or MRI scans. The imaging can help determine the location and extent of the lesion and whether any loose bodies are present in the joint.
OCD lesions can be categorized into stable and unstable lesions. Stable lesions are still firmly attached to the bone, while unstable lesions are partially or completely detached, often leading to loose bodies within the joint.
Treatment depends on the stability of the lesion. Stable lesions are often treated conservatively, with rest, activity modification, and physical therapy. Unstable lesions, however, often require surgical intervention, which can range from drilling to stimulate healing, fixation of the lesion, or replacement of the damaged section with a graft.
Surgery is typically recommended for patients with unstable OCD lesions, significant joint symptoms, or those who have not responded to conservative treatment. Earlier intervention generally leads to better outcomes.
Surgical treatment depends on the condition of the lesion and may include arthroscopic drilling to stimulate healing, fixation of the lesion with screws or pins, or replacement with a graft in cases of large defects.
Recovery typically involves a period of immobilization, followed by a structured rehabilitation program to regain strength and mobility. Full recovery and return to sports can take several months.
Schedule a elbow consultation
Dr. Ben Mayo is a fellowship trained elbow surgeon who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of complex elbow problems such as elbow OCD lesions. Dr. Mayo is regarded as one of the best elbow surgeons in Michigan, and delivers tailored care that suits your needs, helping you return to your sport, your job, or your everyday activities as quickly and safely as possible. Dr. Mayo is conveniently located with clinics in Sterling Heights and Livonia to serve the nearby communities such as Troy, Canton, Macomb, Farmington Hills, Novi, and Royal Oak. If you are having elbow pain from osteochondritis dissecans (OCD), contact Dr. Mayo to schedule a consultation today.
At a Glance
Ben Mayo, MD
- Fellowship Trained Sports Surgeon
- Specializes in Minimally Invasive Arthroscopic Shoulder, Elbow, Hip, & Knee Surgery
- Published over 50 peer-reviewed articles and 10 book chapters
- Learn more