What Is Avascular Necrosis of the Hip? Understanding the Condition
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Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip, also known as osteonecrosis, is a condition caused by the loss of blood supply to the bone tissue in the hip joint. Without adequate blood flow, the bone begins to weaken and collapse, resulting in significant hip pain, reduced mobility, and eventual joint damage. At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, orthopedic and pain management specialist Dr. Christopher Williams offers comprehensive diagnostic and advanced treatment options to help patients with AVN manage their symptoms and maintain joint function.
What causes avascular necrosis of the hip?
Avascular hip necrosis develops when blood flow to the femoral head — the rounded top of the thigh bone that forms the hip joint — is disrupted. This can occur for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of hip necrosis include:
- Trauma or injury, like a hip fracture or dislocation
- Certain medical conditions, including sickle cell anemia
- Certain medications, including long-term corticosteroid use
- Excessive alcohol use
In some cases, the exact cause of avascular necrosis remains unknown, but factors like smoking, chemotherapy, and blood clotting disorders can also contribute to its development.
What are the symptoms of AVN hip necrosis?
The symptoms of avascular necrosis of the hip often develop gradually, which can delay diagnosis until the condition has progressed. Some of the most common signs of AVN in the hip include:
- Pain in the hip, groin, or thigh that worsens with weight-bearing activities
- Limited range of motion in the hip joint
- Pain that persists while resting or lying down
- Difficulty walking or standing for extended periods
As the disease advances, the bone begins to collapse, leading to arthritis and increasing pain levels. Early intervention is key to slowing the progression of AVN and preventing lasting joint damage.
How is avascular necrosis of the hip diagnosed?
At Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta, Dr. Williams uses state-of-the-art imaging and diagnostic tools to identify AVN and assess the severity of bone damage. Diagnostic methods may include:
- X-rays
- MRI scans
- CT scans
In addition to imaging studies and other tests to diagnose AVN, Dr. Williams will perform a comprehensive evaluation, including reviewing your medical history and symptoms, to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
How is avascular necrosis of the hip treated?
The goal of AVN treatment is to relieve pain, preserve joint function, and prevent further bone deterioration. Treatment options for AVN depend on the stage of the disease and the extent of bone damage. Common approaches for treating AVN and relieving AVN pain include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Core decompression
- Regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy
- Bone grafting
In cases where the hip joint has collapsed, or severe arthritis is present, total hip replacement surgery for AVN may be recommended to restore mobility and relieve pain.
Why is it important to diagnose AVN early?
Early diagnosis and treatment of AVN are essential to preventing the condition from progressing to advanced stages, where joint damage becomes irreversible. If you are experiencing persistent hip pain or difficulty with mobility, seeking medical attention as soon as possible can help preserve your joint health and overall quality of life.
Find relief from avascular necrosis of the hip with our orthopedic specialist in Atlanta, GA
If you're struggling with hip pain or have been diagnosed with avascular necrosis, Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta offers cutting-edge treatments to help you manage your symptoms and maintain your active lifestyle. Orthopedic and pain management specialist Dr. Christopher Williams provides personalized care, including regenerative medicine and minimally invasive procedures, to address AVN and improve joint function. Schedule your consultation for AVN treatment in Atlanta, GA today to learn how we can help you take the next steps toward the lasting pain relief and restored mobility you deserve.