Which femoral condyle is most commonly associated with osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions?

Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) lesions are most commonly found in the medial femoral condyle due to several factors. The medial condyle experiences greater compressive forces during weight-bearing activities compared to the lateral condyle. This increased loading can lead to changes in the subchondral bone, which potentially contributes to the development of OCD.

Moreover, the blood supply to the area can be compromised, particularly in the medial compartment, which raises the risk of developing necrosis of the bone and cartilage. The prevalence of OCD lesions in the medial femoral condyle is also noted in various studies and clinical observations, aligning with the common presentation of this condition in young athletes and individuals involved in high-impact sports.

Understanding the anatomical and biomechanical considerations behind the occurrence of OCD is essential for timely diagnosis and management. This focus on the medial femoral condyle helps clinicians provide targeted interventions that address the specific nature of the lesion in the context of knee injuries.