Table 2.

Key Points and Pearls for Using Microfracture to Treat Osteochondritis Dissecans Lesions of Capitellum

Positioning the patient supine with the arm across the chest allows flexion of the elbow and optimal viewing of the radiocapitellar joint from a posterolateral portal.

Use of a 70° arthroscope can improve visualization of the lesion.

A thorough assessment of lesion stability is critical to determine the optimal treatment strategy.

Before microfracture, the lesion should be debrided to a solid bony base and stable chondral rim.

An intact lateral buttress of cartilage is a prerequisite for performing microfracture.

Microfracture sites should be created to the minimal depth that results in influx of marrow elements.