What is avascular necrosis?
Avascular necrosis happens when the blood supply to the bones has stopped or reduced. Without blood supplying to the bones, the bones will die. If the affected region is a joint, the joint may collapse. Avascular necrosis occurs mostly on the hip.
Avascular necrosis is also called osteonecrosis, aseptic necrosis, or ischemic bone necrosis.
What causes avascular necrosis?
The main causes of avascular necrosis are:
- Hip injury like hip fracture or hip dislocation
- Complication arises after the hip injury
- Gout
- Long term drinking large amount of alcohol
What are the symptoms of avascular necrosis?
Symptoms of avascular necrosis include:
- Mild to moderate pain to the hip or groin
- Limited range of movement to the hip
- Walking with a limp
- Pain increased with standing or walking
Men between 40 and 50 years old are most likely to have avascular necrosis.
How is avascular necrosis treated?
Medicines are usually prescribed to help to reduce the inflammation to the hips for the time being.
Ultimately, surgery is recommended as currently it is still the most effective treatment for avascular necrosis.
Types of surgery for avascular necrosis to the hip are:
- Hip hemiarthroplasty
- Total hip replacement
Avascular Necrosis Orthopaedic Surgeon
