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Avascularnecrosis of the hip, often abbreviated as AVN, occurs when the blood supply to the femoral head, the rounded top of the thigh bone, becomes disrupted. This interruption in blood flow leads to the death of bone tissue in the hip joint, resulting in pain and eventual damage to the joint.
Whilethe precise cause of AVN may remain elusive in many cases, certain factors can trigger its onset. These include traumatic injuries to the hip, prolonged use of corticosteroid medications, excessive alcohol consumption, and specific medical conditions like sickle cell disease or lupus. These factors interfere with the blood circulation to the hip joint, causing the bone cells to perish. Identifying Risk Factors Associated with AVN
● Hip joint injuries
● Long-term use of corticosteroids
● Excessive alcohol intake
● Underlying medical conditions like sickle cell disease, lupus, or HIV
● Previous radiationtherapy
● Smoking
Symptoms of AVN can vary depending on the stage of the condition. In the early stages, individuals may not experience any noticeable symptoms. However, as the condition progresses, common signs and symptoms may include:
● Persistent hip pain,often worsening with physical activity
● Stiffness in the hip joint, particularly after periods of inactivity
● Difficulty walking or bearing weight on the affected hip
● Limited range of motion in the hip joint
● Discomfort or pain in the groin or thigh area
If you’re experiencing persistent hip pain or any of the symptoms above, seeking medical advice is crucial. A comprehensive examination by a orthopedaedic surgeon may involve:
Reviewing medical history: Your doctor will inquire about your symptoms, medical background, and potential risk factors.
Physical assessment: Your doctor will physically examine your hip joint, checking for tenderness, swelling, or restricted mobility.
Imaging tests: X-rays, MRI scans,or CT scans may be ordered to visualize the hip joint and evaluate the extent of bone damage.
Treatment AVN aims to alleviate pain, preserve joint function, and prevent further hip joint deterioration. Treatment approaches may vary based on the stage of the condition and symptom severity. Common treatment modalities include:
Medications: Painrelievers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and bisphosphonates can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.
Activity modification: Avoiding activities that aggravate hip pain and minimizing weight-bearing activities can prevent additional stress on the hip joint.
Physical therapy: Engaging intailored exercises and stretches prescribed by a doctor can enhance hip joint flexibility and strengthen surrounding muscles.
Core decompression surgery: This surgical intervention involves removing a portion of the damaged bone to alleviate pressure within the hip joint and stimulate new bone growth.
Total hip replacement surgery: In advanced cases where conservative treatments prove ineffective, total hip replacement surgery is recommended to replace the damaged joint with an artificial prosthesis.
If hip replacement surgery is deemed necessary; your doctor will advise specific preoperative instructions to ensure optimal surgical outcomes. These instructions may include:
Medication adjustments:Your doctor may advise discontinuing certain medications, such as blood thinners, before surgery.
Fasting protocols:You may be instructed to refrain from eating or drinking for a specified duration before surgery to minimize the risk of complications during anesthesia.
Preoperative assessments:Blood tests,imaging scans or other evaluations may be conducted to assess your overall health and identify potential surgical risks.
Lifestyle modifications: Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as smoking cessation or weight management, to enhance overall health and facilitate recovery.
If you’re experiencing hip pain, seeking prompt medical attention is paramount. Early diagnosis and intervention can help mitigate further hip joint damage and enhance your quality of life. Contact our Senoir Joint Repalecment Surgeon today to schedule a consultation.
