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J Knee Surg 2011; 24(4): 217-224
DOI: 10.1055/s-0031-1297362
SPECIAL FOCUS SECTION

© Thieme Medical Publishers

Staging and Comorbidities

Christian Lattermann1 , Matthew R. Luckett1
  • 1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Kentucky, Lexington, Kentucky
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Publication History

Publication Date:
01 December 2011 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Articular cartilage lesions of the distal femur and patella are common. To provide an accurate diagnosis of a clinically symptomatic cartilage lesion and subsequent appropriate planning for potential treatment options, a proper staging is required. This includes clinical exam, radiographic imaging as well as arthroscopy. Once the staging is completed, other comorbidities may need to be addressed that may require additional surgical procedures. These can either be planned as staged procedures or concomitantly with a cartilage repair procedure. This article will discuss this staging and evaluation process in depth to serve as a guideline to the orthopaedic surgeon engaged in the treatment of cartilage defects in patients with early posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA).

KEYWORDS

Cartilage - staging - treatment - diagnosis

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Christian LattermannM.D. 

Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine, University of Kentucky

740 South Limestone, Lexington, KY 40475

Email: clattermann@gmail.com

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