Spontaneous Osteonecrosis of the Knee

Osteonecrosis

• Osteonecrosis is a disease characterized by a derangement of bony blood circulation that leads to necrosis (death) of bony tissue.
• Osteonecrosis of the knee has been divided into 2 separate entities: spontaneous osteonecrosis of the knee (SPONK) and secondary osteonecrosis.
• Secondary osteonecrosis usually has an underlying cause e.g. prolonged use of steroids, alcohol abuse.
  

SPONK

• Spontaneous Osteonecrosis of the Knee.
• Sudden severe pain in the knee.
• Usually involves the medial femoral condyle.
• Pain worse with walking or standing.
• Associated with persistent swelling inside the knee.
• Aching pain at night when resting.
• Typically in people older than 55 years.
• More common in females than males (3:1).
• Usually affects only 1 knee.
  
  

Investigations

• Plain knee X-rays usually quite normal looking.
• Knee joint space may still be preserved on x-rays.
• Can be confused with a degenerate meniscus tear if based on clinical examination.
• MRI is usually needed to make diagnosis.
  
  

Please note that the information contained herein is for general medical information only.
If you have any specific medical condition or queries, please consult your medical doctor.

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