LONG-TERM RESULTS OF SMILLIE PIN FIXATION OF OSTEOCHONDRITIS-DISSECANS IN THE FEMORAL CONDYLES

The purpose of this study was to determine the extent of secondary ost eoarthritis after fixation of an osteochondritis dissecans fragment in the knee using Smillie pins as well as to assess the final outcome of the procedure. Eighteen patients treated for osteochondritis dissecan s of the knee 10-34 years previously were re-evaluated clinically and radiologically. Moderate secondary osteoarthritis was noted in 35% of the patients, and clinically un-satisfactory result was seen in 44%. T he remaining patients showed good or excellent clinical and radiologic al results at the follow-up.