AVASCULAR NECROSIS OF BONE

Overview and Facts

Avascular necrosis of bone is the death of bone because of an absence of or limited blood supply. Likewise called osteonecrosis, it can prompt minor breaks in the bone and may lead to the bone’s possible breakdown.

A fractured bone or dislocated joint can interfere with the circulation to an area of bone. Avascular necrosis can also ensue from continuous use of steroid drugs and alcohol consumption.

Anybody can be affected, however the condition is commonly observed in individuals between the ages of 30 to 50 years old.

Types and Symptoms

SYMPTOMS

Numerous individuals have no symptoms in the beginning times of avascular necrosis. As the condition progresses, the  joint may be painful just when you put weight on it. In the end, you may feel the pain in any event, even when you’re resting.

The pain can be mild to severe and typically grows slowly. Pain related to avascular necrosis of of the hip bone may focus on the crotch, thigh or butt. Other than the hip, the areas that can be involved are the shoulder, knee, hand and foot.

A few people may have avascular necrosis on the two sides, such as in the two hips or in the two knees.

Diagnosis & Medications

DIAGNOSIS

During a physical exam, your physician will probably press around your joints, checking for sensitivity. Your physician may likewise move the joints through different positions to check whether your movement has decreased.

Imaging tests may include the following:

  • X-rays
  • MRI and CT scan
  • Bone scan

TREATMENT

The objective is to prevent more bone loss from occurring.

Treatment may include the following:

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugssuch as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium
  • Osteoporosis drugs such as alendronate
  • Cholesterol-lowering drugs
  • Blood thinners such as warfarin
  • Restthat reduces weight and stress on your affected bone
  • Exercisesthrough a physical therapist
  • Electrical stimulation
  • Surgery such as core decompression, bone transplant, bone reshaping or osteotomy, joint replacement
  • Regenerative medicine treatment such as bone marrow aspirate and concentration

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