What is Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular necrosis, also called osteonecrosis, is a condition in which bone death occurs because of inadequate blood supply to it. Lack of blood flow may occur when there is a fracture in the bone or a joint dislocation that may damage nearby blood vessels. 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 for avascular necrosis. Initially, small breaks appear in the bone that may eventually collapse.
Symptoms of Avascular Necrosis
The symptoms appear suddenly if it is the result of an injury. In other situations, you may experience pain and stiffness gradually over a period of time. 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 and bone 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 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
The conservative treatments for avascular necrosis may include:
- Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be prescribed to help control your pain and swelling.
- Rest: Restriction of physical activities and the use of crutches to decrease weight-bearing on your joints may be beneficial.
- Exercises: Regular exercises that improve your range of motion are recommended.
- Electrical stimulation: Electric currents promote new bone growth. They can be applied directly to the area of damage or through electrodes fixed on the skin. They help to replace damaged bone.
Surgical Treatments for Avascular Necrosis
Avascular necrosis can be treated by one of the following methods:
Core decompression: During this procedure, a portion of the inner layer of the bone is removed to relieve the pressure inside the bone. This decreases the pain and allows the growth of new blood vessels; thereby, stimulating new bone growth.
Bone transplant: A healthy bone harvested from another part of your body is grafted into the affected area.
Bone reshaping (osteotomy): This procedure is performed in advanced stages and involves reshaping of the bone which is done to decrease the stress placed over the affected bone.
Joint replacement: Joint replacement surgery is performed as a last resort when the bone has collapsed, requiring artificial replacement.