Understanding Avascular Necrosis
What patients commonly notice
Reduced blood supply to the femoral head can weaken the bone and may eventually lead to collapse of the joint surface. The exact pattern and severity can vary, so a clinical assessment is important before deciding on treatment.
Common symptoms
- Gradually increasing groin, thigh or buttock pain
- Pain with weight-bearing and later at rest
- Stiffness, limping and reduced mobility
Causes and risk factors
There may be more than one contributing factor. Common possibilities include:
- Hip fracture or dislocation
- Prolonged or high-dose corticosteroid exposure
- Excess alcohol use or certain medical conditions
How is avascular necrosis assessed?
Assessment usually combines a history of where and when the pain occurs, examination of gait and hip movement, and appropriate imaging. Symptoms from the lower back or surrounding tendons may also need to be considered.
Treatment options
Treatment is matched to the diagnosis, symptom severity, general health and the activities you need to return to. Options may include:
- Early-stage joint-protective measures and risk-factor management
- Core decompression or other joint-preserving procedures in selected cases
- Hip replacement once collapse and advanced arthritis occur
Surgery is not automatically the first step. When it is considered, the likely benefit, alternatives and recovery requirements should be discussed clearly.
Common questions
Can the femoral head recover after avascular necrosis develops?
Early disease may sometimes be managed before the joint surface collapses, but dead bone does not reliably return to normal. The stage and size of the affected area strongly influence treatment options.
How quickly does avascular necrosis progress?
Progression is unpredictable. Some lesions remain stable for a period, while others enlarge and collapse. MRI and follow-up imaging help define the stage and monitor change.
Can avascular necrosis be treated without a hip replacement?
In selected early-stage cases, risk-factor management and procedures such as core decompression may be considered. Once the femoral head has collapsed and arthritis is advanced, hip replacement is often the more dependable option.
This page provides general patient information and does not replace a consultation or personalised medical advice.