OBJECTIVETo evaluate clinical effects of fixation of chronic large osteochondral fragment in the weight-bearing area of femoral condyle using absorbable pins under arthroscopy.

METHODSFrom March 2007 to December 2011, 6 patients with chronic large osteochondral fractures of femoral condyle were treated with absorbable pins under arthroscopy. Among the patients, there were 4 males and 2 females, ranging in age from 14 to 48 years old, and the courses of disease ranged from 4 to 26 weeks. After injury, patients suffered from pain and swelling on the knee. The locations of injury were at the weight-bearing areas of femoral condyle. The depth of injury was degree IV according to ICRS classification. The area of injury was more than 4 cm2. The healing of osteochondral fracture was assessed by X-ray. Lysholm score, IKDC score and Tegner activity score were used to assess outcomes.

RESULTSThe osteochondral fractures healed in all patients, and the cartilage became degenerative to some extent when performing a secondary exploration. The postoperative Lysholm score, IKDC score and Tegner activity score increased compared with those before operation.

CONCLUSIONUsing absorbable pins under arthroscopy for the treatment of chronic large osteochondral fracture of femoral condyle is effective to regain the flat structure of articular cartilage and promote the healing of osteochondral fracture.