[Pathogenesis of knee osteoarthrist].

More than 20% of the population of over 60-year olds suffers from degenerative joint diseases of the lower extremities. The cause of primary osteoarthritis of the knee is still unknown. A multifactorial genesis is presumed that includes genetic, nutritional, hormonal and age-related factors. On the other hand, secondary osteoarthritis is a sequela of predisposing factors. The most frequent are axial deformities, pre-existing conditions or injuries. Pre-osteoarthritis appears as dysplasias and dystopias (abnormal presentation) of the patella and axial misalignments, incongruities and joint damage after fractures. The result is the mechanical destruction of the cartilage that, in turn, initiates a vicious circle of further cartilage loss.