Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) of the Capitellum

What is the Capitellum?

The capitellum is part of the humerus that meets the radius at the outer elbow joint surface.

What is This Condition?

OCD occurs when a small piece of cartilage and underlying bone becomes damaged and may loosen, often from repetitive stress in young athletes.

What are the Symptoms?

• Pain on the outer side of the elbow during activity

• Swelling and stiffness

• Locking, catching, or clicking if loose fragments are present

• Loss of throwing velocity or control in athletes

What Causes It?

• Repetitive overhead throwing or gymnastics stress in adolescents

• Poor blood supply to the cartilage and bone

• Trauma in some cases

How is It Diagnosed?

• Exam: pain with motion or weightbearing

• X-rays: may show defects in the bone

• MRI/CT: evaluate cartilage and stability of the lesion

How is It Treated?

Non-surgical:

• Rest from throwing or impact activities

• Physical therapy to maintain strength and flexibility

• Close monitoring with imaging

Surgical:

• Drilling to promote healing

• Removal or fixation of loose fragments

• Cartilage restoration techniques in advanced cases

Learn more from AAOS (OrthoInfo):

https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/throwing-injuries-in-the-elbow-in-children/