Are bone bruises a possible cause of osteochondritis dissecans of the capitellum? a case report and review of the literature

A 17-year old soccer-player sustained a fracture and dislocation of the ulnar epicondyle combined with a bone bruises at the radial head and the capitellum. An open reduction and internal fixation was performed using two K-wires. Initial recovery was uneventful. After the operation he was discharged home and reviewed on a regular basis. When bony union had occurred the two K-wires were removed. However, on follow up he continued to complain of pain on the radial aspect of the joint and did not regain his normal range of movement. A further MRI was performed. Now a grade II osteochondritis dissecans not visible on the previous MRI taken 12 weeks earlier was clearly visualised. Treatment was continued conservatively with physiotherapy but avoiding aggressive mobilisation. On final review 6 months later he was able to move painfree with residual limitation of movement (ROM 0–5–130°). Another MRI taken now was assessed as normal.