Avascular necrosis of the hip (AVN) is a condition that occurs when the bone and cartilage in the hip joint do not receive enough blood supply. Without a sufficient blood supply, the tissue in the hip joint may become damaged and eventually die, leading to severe pain and stiffness. The end stage of AVN of the hip is total hip replacement, or THR.
Symptoms of AVN of the Hip
The symptoms of AVN of the hip vary depending on the severity of the condition and the stage of the disease. Early symptoms may include pain in the hip, especially when walking, climbing stairs, or getting up from a seated position. Other symptoms may include stiffness of the hip, a grinding sensation in the joint, decreased range of motion, and joint swelling.
Diagnosis of AVN of the Hip
AVN of the hip is diagnosed with a physical exam, imaging tests such as X-rays or MRI, and blood tests. Your doctor may also order a bone scan to check for any damage to the bone.
Treatment of AVN of the Hip
The treatment of AVN of the hip depends on the severity of the condition. Non-surgical treatments such as lifestyle modifications, physical therapy, and medications can be used to manage the symptoms. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary to replace the damaged bone and cartilage with an artificial joint.
End Stage of AVN of the Hip
The end stage of AVN of the hip is total hip replacement, or THR. During this procedure, the damaged bone and cartilage in the hip joint are replaced with an artificial joint. The artificial joint is designed to restore mobility and reduce pain. After the surgery, physical therapy is usually required to help patients regain strength and range of motion in the joint.