What is Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular Necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition where the bone tissue dies due to a lack of blood supply. This lack of blood flow deprives the bone of oxygen and nutrients, causing the bone to eventually collapse.
AVN commonly affects joints such as the hip, knee, shoulder, and ankle, though it can occur in any bone.
Side Effects of Avascular Necrosis
The most significant side effect of AVN is pain, which can worsen over time as the bone deteriorates. Patients may also experience limited range of motion in the affected joint, stiffness, and difficulty in walking or bearing weight on the joint.
If left untreated, AVN can lead to severe arthritis and permanent damage to the joint.
How is Avascular Necrosis Diagnosed?
Diagnosing Avascular Necrosis typically involves a combination of medical history review, physical examination, and imaging tests. X-rays are commonly used to detect changes in the bone structure, such as bone collapse or fractures.
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scans provide detailed images of the affected bone and can reveal early signs of AVN before they are visible on an X-ray.
Potential Treatment of Avascular Necrosis
Treatment options for Avascular Necrosis depend on several factors, including the stage of the disease, the location and size of the affected area, and the patient's overall health. In the early stages, when the bone has not collapsed, conservative treatments such as medications to relieve pain, limiting weight-bearing activities, and physical therapy to maintain joint mobility may be recommended.
For more advanced cases or when conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, surgical interventions may be necessary. Core decompression is a procedure where the inner layer of bone is removed to relieve pressure and improve blood flow to the affected area. Bone grafting may be used to help regenerate new bone tissue in the collapsed area. In severe cases, joint replacement surgery may be recommended to remove the damaged joint and replace it with an artificial joint.
👉 Contact us for further information and receive a complimentary consultation.
