Avascular Necrosis
What is Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular necrosis, also called osteonecrosis, is a condition in which bone death occurs because of inadequate blood supply to it. The hip joint is most commonly affected; however, the knee and shoulder may also be involved.
Factors that can lead to Avascular Necrosis
Chronic use of high doses of steroid medications and heavy alcohol consumption are the two main risk factors of avascular necrosis. Initially, small breaks appear in the bone that may eventually collapse. in most cases the cause of avascular necrosis is unknown
Symptoms of Avascular Necrosis
The symptoms appear suddenly if it is the result of an injury. In other situations, the pain and stiffness may gradually appear over a period. Typically, avascular necrosis causes pain and restricted range of motion in the affected joint. Your doctor will diagnose the condition using imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scan that help rule out other causes of joint pain.
Treatments for Avascular Necrosis
The treatment for avascular necrosis aims at preventing further loss of bone and it depends on the bone damage that has occurred already. Conservative treatment would reverse early stages of avascular necrosis, whereas surgical treatment may be required in more advanced stages.
Conservative Approach for Avascular Necrosis
Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may be prescribed that help control your pain and swelling.
Rest: Restriction of physical activities and use of crutches to decrease weight- bearing on your joints may be beneficial.
Exercises: Regular exercises that improve your range of motion are recommended.
What is Core Decompression?
Core decompression is procedure where small holes are drilled into the area of dying bone in order to decrease pressure and promote increased blood supply. This procedure takes approximately one hour, does not require general anesthesia and can be done under nerve block. The surgeon can also inject stem cells in the area of dead bone that was drilled to further promote new bone growth.
Who is a Candidate for Core Decompression?
Patients with symptomatic avascular necrosis where the bone has not yet collapsed. Once the bone has collapsed the treatment of choice is hip replacement surgery.
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