General Information About Avascular Necrosis
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the loss of vitality (death) of the bone due to the interruption of blood flow to the bone tissue, and over time, losing its weight-bearing strength, fragmenting and collapsing.
Although it can occur in any bone in the body, it is most commonly seen in the hip joint (the head of the femur). It can also appear in the shoulder, knee, and ankle bones.
Traumas such as joint dislocations or bone fractures can tear the blood vessels. Non-traumatic causes include long-term high-dose cortisone use and excessive alcohol consumption, which are the biggest risk factors.
Initially, there is a subtle joint pain felt only when bearing weight; as the bone begins to collapse, severe pain that continues even while resting and limping develops.
In the early stages of the disease, X-ray films may appear normal. The most reliable diagnostic method that can detect damage and edema inside the bone at a very early stage is an MRI with contrast.
In the early stage, pressure is reduced by drilling holes into the bone (core decompression), and the formation of new blood vessels is stimulated. If collapse has started in the bone, joint replacement surgeries like Total Hip Replacement are mandatory for the patient to walk without pain.
Our health library contents are prepared for informational purposes only and with scientific data available at the time of recording. For all your questions, concerns, diagnosis, or treatment regarding your health, please consult your doctor or a healthcare institution.
