What is aseptic necrosis of the femoral head?
Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a pathologic process that results from interruption of blood supply to the bone. AVN of the hip is poorly understood, but this process is the final common pathway of traumatic or nontraumatic factors that compromise the already precarious circulation of the femoral head.
What does AVN look like on an MRI?
MRI findings of AVN include decreased signal intensity in the subchondral region on both T1- and T2-weighted images, suggesting edema (water signal) in early disease. This relatively nonspecific finding is often localized in the medial aspect of the femoral head. This abnormality is observed in 96% of cases.
What type of MRI is used for avascular necrosis?
Early diagnosis and treatment of this entity are crucial because it affects relatively young individuals, and treatment options for advanced disease are limited. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as the modality of choice for the evaluation of avascular necrosis of bone.
Does MRI show avascular necrosis?
MRI and CT scan. These tests produce detailed images that can show early changes in bone that might indicate avascular necrosis.
Is aseptic necrosis painful?
Many people have no symptoms in the early stages of avascular necrosis. As the condition worsens, your affected joint might hurt only when you put weight on it. Eventually, you might feel the pain even when you’re lying down. Pain can be mild or severe and usually develops gradually.
What condition leads to necrosis of the femoral head?
Rheumatoid arthritis and sickle cell disease are two conditions that can precipitate the development of osteonecrosis in the femoral head and can cause hip pain even without osteonecrosis.
How is avascular necrosis of the femoral head treated?
In early stages of AVN (precollapse), core decompression with or without bone graft is typically considered the most appropriate treatment. In late stages, characterized by collapse, femoral head deformity, and secondary osteoarthritis, total hip arthroplasty is the most appropriate treatment.
What is the difference between osteonecrosis and avascular necrosis?
Avascular necrosis is the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. Also called osteonecrosis, it can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone’s eventual collapse.
Can you recover from necrosis?
Necrotic tissue that is present in a wound presents a physical impediment to healing. Simply put, wounds cannot heal when necrotic tissue is present.