Extract
Loose bodies, or osteochondral fragments, are commonly found in human
joints. They are presumed to arise from trauma, joint disintegration (for
example, degenerative changes), or synovial
proliferation1. The
natural history of loose bodies in synovial joints is slow enlargement with
deposition of additional surface layers. However, if the loose body becomes
trapped and reattaches to the synovium, it is then generally reabsorbed.
Neuropathic or degenerative joints with hyperemic or inflamed synovium are
particularly prone to the development of loose bodies, but they also tend to
rapidly reabsorb
them2. Histological
studies have generally demonstrated varying amounts of osseous, cartilaginous,
and fibrous tissue with living and dead osteocytes, chondrocytes, osteoclasts,
and osteoblasts found in the tissue layers. No blood supply nourishes these
loose bodies; therefore, they derive sustenance from the synovial fluid
alone3.