Subchondral fracture: Definition, Uses, and Clinical Overview
A Subchondral fracture is a crack or break in the layer of bone just beneath joint cartilage. It most often involves weight-bearing joints such as the hip, knee, and ankle. Clinicians use the term to describe a specific pattern of bone injury that can cause joint pain and limited function. It is commonly discussed in orthopedic clinics and on MRI reports when evaluating unexplained joint pain.