Avascular necrosis of the hip is a serious condition that occurs when the blood supply to the hip joint is cut off or disrupted. Without an adequate blood supply, the bone in the hip joint begins to die, leading to pain, stiffness, and eventually collapse of the hip joint.
There are several potential causes of avascular necrosis of the hip. One of the most common is trauma or injury to the hip joint. This can be a result of a direct blow to the hip, a fall, or a motor vehicle accident. Other causes of trauma to the hip include bone fractures and dislocation of the hip joint.
The use of certain medications can also increase the risk of developing avascular necrosis of the hip. Steroids, such as prednisone, can weaken the bones and decrease the blood supply to the hip joint. Other medications that have been associated with avascular necrosis of the hip include chemotherapy drugs, certain blood thinners, and alcohol.
Medical conditions, such as sickle cell anemia, lupus, and HIV, can also increase the risk of developing avascular necrosis of the hip. These conditions can cause damage to blood vessels, resulting in a decrease in the blood supply to the hip joint.
In some cases, the underlying cause of avascular necrosis of the hip is unknown. In these cases, the condition is classified as idiopathic.
If left untreated, avascular necrosis of the hip can lead to severe pain and disability. Treatment options include medications to reduce pain and inflammation, physical therapy, and, in some cases, surgery to replace the hip joint.