OCD lesions

Diagnostic Evaluation

Osteochondritis dissecans is focal failure of cartilage that can lead to unstable fragments and osteoarthritis. Patients present with lameness and joint effusion, often after activity. Radiographs are first-line to detect osteochondral defects and mineralized fragments. CT clarifies fragment and subchondral bone architecture. MRI detects cartilage flaps and early lesions before mineralization. Ultrasound may show effusion but not cartilage integrity. Nuclear imaging is rarely used.