On this page, you will find everything you need to know about avascular necrosis of the hip.
What is avascular necrosis of the hip?
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply.It is also known as osteonecrosis and may lead to small bone fractures and eventual collapse.
Smoother and slightly more formal structure.
What are the symptoms of avascular necrosis of the hip?
- Hip pain.
- Mild or throbbing pain in the thigh or buttock area.
- Difficulty standing and putting weight on the affected hip.
- Pain when moving the hip joint.
What are the causes of avascular necrosis of the hip?
When blood flow to the femoral head stops without sufficient nourishment, the bone in the femoral head dies and gradually collapses. As a result, the articular cartilage covering the joint surface may also collapse, leading to joint dysfunction.
In many cases, the cause is unknown, but there are some health conditions that may lead to avascular necrosis of the hip, such as:
- Sickle cell anemia.
- Injuries and trauma in the hip area.
- Tumors
It may also be caused by some treatments and medications, such as:
- Radiation therapy or chemotherapy.
- Long-term use of corticosteroids.
What are the diagnostic methods?
The doctor will take the medical history and perform the physical examination and may request additional procedures tests or imaging studies, such as:
What are the treatment methods for avascular necrosis of the hip?
Treatment is done with several surgical procedures and may include the following:
- Core decompression and bone grafting.
- Vascularized fibular grafting.
- Total hip replacement.
What are the prevention methods for avascular necrosis of the hip?
There is no known way to prevent avascular necrosis of the hip.
What are the complications of avascular necrosis of the hip?
- Joint replacement.
- Hip osteoarthritis.
When should you see a doctor?
If you are experiencing the symptoms mentioned above, you should see a doctor.
Frequently asked questions:
Is avascular necrosis of the hip a common disease?
No, it is not common, but certain groups—such as individuals with sickle cell anemia—are at higher risk. If they experience hip joint pain, they should consult a doctor immediately.
