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Osteochondritis in the female gymnast's elbow
D W Jackson1, N Silvino, P Reiman
1Southern California Center for Sports Medicine, Long Beach 90806.
Summary
Osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum is a significant elbow injury in young female gymnasts. Surgical intervention may improve symptoms but return to high-level gymnastics is unlikely.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Pediatric Sports Medicine
- Sports Rehabilitation
Background:
- Osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) of the humeral capitellum is a known injury in athletes.
- Repetitive valgus loading across the radiocapitellar joint can cause compressive forces in developing epiphyses.
- Limited literature exists on this specific injury in young female gymnasts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral capitellum in high-performance female gymnasts.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of surgical interventions for this condition.
- To assess the long-term outcomes and return-to-sport rates in this population.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of ten cases of humeral capitellum OCD in seven female gymnasts (ages 10-17).
- Surgical interventions included arthroscopy and/or arthrotomy with curettage, drilling, and loose body removal.
- Follow-up averaged 2.9 years, including clinical interviews, physical examinations, and radiographic evaluations.
Main Results:
- Nine of ten athletes underwent surgical treatment.
- All athletes experienced minimal limitations in range of motion, with reported crepitus and catching.
- Only one athlete returned to competitive gymnastics at follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Surgical treatment can improve symptoms of humeral capitellum OCD in female gymnasts.
- Despite surgical improvement, return to high-level competitive gymnastics is unlikely.
- Early evaluation and treatment of elbow injuries in this at-risk group are crucial.