A :
B :
C :
D :
E :
F :
G :
H :
I :
J :
K :
L :
M :
N :
O :
P :
Q :
R :
S :
T :
U :
V :
W :
X :
Y :
Z
Chondromalacia Patellae
Medical Questions » Chondromalacia Patellae
| Name: Chondromalacia Patellae |
| Also known as: |
| Disease of the knee cap (patella) that occurs only in teenagers and young adults. The patella is designed to glide smoothly over the end of the femur (the thigh bone) as the knee is bent and straightened. The under-surface of the patella is covered with a very smooth layer of cartilage, but in chondromalacia, the cartilage becomes softened, pitted, uneven and damaged, and the knee cap grates across the femur instead of gliding. |
Causes of Chondromalacia Patellae
Often difficult to determine, but it can be caused by recurrent dislocation of the knee cap, or by falling repeatedly on the knee. |
Symptoms of Chondromalacia Patellae
Pain deep in the knee which is worse on bending the knee or kneeling. When the knee is moved, a fine grating sensation may be felt. |
Tests for Chondromalacia Patellae
Arthroscope (looking into the knee joint through a thin tube) may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. |
Treatment for Chondromalacia Patellae
Firm bandaging and rest, but sometimes splinting or a plaster cast may be required for a few weeks. If pain persists for months, surgery to modify or remove the knee cap may be necessary.
|
Complications of Chondromalacia Patellae of its treatment
Rarely, permanent knee pain may occur and resist all treatment. |
Likely Outcome of Chondromalacia Patellae
Majority of cases settle with simple treatments. |
|
|
