Osteochondrosis dissecans of the glenoid.

Osteochondrosis dissecans of the glenoid is a rare condition that has been mentioned only once in the literature, by Lavner in 1947. Trauma is generally accepted as a cause of this disorder. Injury produces an ischemic insult to the subchondral bone and possible loose body formation if fragmentation of the articular surface occurs. Endocrine abnormalities, genetic influences, and the presence of anomalous centers of ossification may also contribute to the development of this condition. We present two patients whose clinical histories indicate a traumatic etiology of osteochondrosis dissecans of the glenoid. We also discuss the radiological, clinical, and etiological features of this entity.