Which condyle of the knee is at a four times greater risk to have an osteochondral defect?

The medial condyle of the knee is at a significantly higher risk of developing osteochondral defects due to its anatomical and biomechanical characteristics. The medial condyle bears more load compared to the lateral condyle, particularly in situations where the knee is under stress during weight-bearing activities. This increased load can lead to degenerative changes and potential cartilage damage.

Moreover, the medial condyle has a different shape and surface area which can predispose it to higher incidence rates of defects. Its location and relation to the surrounding structures also contribute to this increased risk, as it is central to various forces acting on the knee during movement. Consequently, factors such as joint alignment, variations in muscle and tendon dynamics, as well as biomechanical stressors play critical roles in making the medial condyle more susceptible to osteochondral injuries.

Understanding this predisposition helps in predicting potential injuries and in crafting preventive strategies for knee health, particularly focusing on the medial aspect of the knee joint.