J Am Acad Orthop Sur
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J Am Acad Orthop Sur · Jan 2014
ReviewPathogenesis and prevention of posttraumatic osteoarthritis after intra-articular fracture.
Posttraumatic osteoarthritis (PTOA) occurs after traumatic injury to the joint. It is most common following injuries that disrupt the articular surface or lead to joint instability. ⋯ Pathogenesis of PTOA after intra-articular fracture is likely multifactorial and may be associated with acute cartilage injury as well as chronic joint overload secondary to instability, incongruity, and malalignment. Additional studies are needed to better elucidate how these factors contribute to the development of PTOA and to develop advanced treatment algorithms that consist of both acute biologic interventions targeted to decrease inflammation and cellular death in response to injury and improved surgical methods to restore stability, congruity, and alignment.