Avascular necrosis, also known as osteonecrosis, is a medical condition used to address the gradual death or degradation of bone tissue. The breakdown of bone tissue starts due to a lack of blood supply to the bones. It usually occurs as a post-traumatic aftermath, meaning a broken or dislocated bone can stop the blood flow to the veins surrounding other bones, depleting them of oxygen and nutrients. AVN progresses through months and years, leading to tiny cracks in bones. Over time, the bone starts to collapse.
Symptoms of Avascular Necrosis
In the early stages, there are no observable symptoms. Over time, usually after months, discomfort may develop in standing and walking. Pain gradually begins to affect the knees and joints, leading to aches. If the necrosis is located in the hips and knees, limping may occur.
When to Visit a Doctor?
If you notice discomfort in your joints while walking and standing, then you must visit an orthopedic doctor. When it comes to healthcare and wellbeing, choose Dr Uday Meghnathi, an expert hip specialist in Vadodara. He provides the best services, like fracture management, knee replacement, joint replacement, and pediatric orthopedics. Call and book your appointment now.
Causes of Avascular Necrosis
This disease usually occurs between the ages of 40-50. There are many causes of osteonecrosis-
➤ Untreated bone injury
➤ Consumption of heavy steroids
➤ Regular intake of alcohol
➤ Smoking
➤ Radiation therapy
➤ Dislocated Bones
➤ Underlying illnesses that block the blood supply.
➤ Organ transplants
Underlying Diseases That Cause Avascular Necrosis
➤ Osteoporosis
➤ HIV
➤ Sickle cell anaemia
➤ Pancreatitis
➤ Cancers, especially leukaemia
➤ Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
➤ Decompression sickness
➤ Diabetes
Treatment of Avascular Necrosis
Treatment completely depends on the damage the disease has done to the bone. For smaller bones, there are many treatment options like cold therapy, heat treatment, rest, physiotherapy, walking aids like crutches, etc. If pain persists, see avascular Necrosis treatment in Vadodara at our clinic. Other advanced treatment options are-
Core Decompression: Here, the bone is treated to restore the normal blood flow across the affected bone. This method may include injections and bone grafting.
Replacement of Joints: This treatment is mostly performed in the case of the knee and hip joints. The mobility and normalcy are completely restored after the replacement.
Conclusion
Whenever you notice pain, unexplained limping and restricted movement, you must see an orthopedic doctor without fail. Visit Dr Uday Meghnathi’s clinic, the orthopedic hospital in Baroda. He is an expert in bone-related issues of all intensities, from tiny fractures, sprains, to knee replacement, hip replacement, neurosis and also for children. Call us now to book an appointment.
Also Read: Normal to Have Thigh Pain After a Hip Replacement?
