Hip osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip, is a condition in which the blood supply to the hip bone is disrupted, leading to the death of bone tissue. This lack of circulation weakens the bone and can cause the hip joint to collapse, resulting in severe arthritis. Osteonecrosis can significantly affect mobility and quality of life due to the pain and loss of joint function it causes.
Hip osteonecrosis can result from various factors that disrupt blood flow to the femoral head—the ball-shaped part of the hip joint. The most common causes include hip trauma, such as fractures or dislocations, which can damage nearby blood vessels. Long-term use of high-dose steroid medications and excessive alcohol consumption are also significant risk factors. Certain medical conditions, such as lupus, sickle cell disease, and decompression sickness (a condition common among divers), can predispose individuals to osteonecrosis. In many cases, however, the exact cause remains unknown.
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Early stages of hip osteonecrosis can be managed with non-surgical treatments such as medication, physiotherapy, and lifestyle modifications to reduce stress on the joint. However, as the disease progresses, these measures may become less effective. Advanced cases, especially those involving joint collapse, may require hip replacement surgery.
At the Hanche Genou Clinic, our expert surgeons, Dr. Yves Laflamme and Dr. Hai Nguyen, offer advanced hip replacement procedures for patients with osteonecrosis. This surgery involves removing the damaged parts of the hip joint and replacing them with a high-quality prosthetic joint designed to replicate the natural movements of the hip. Hip replacement can significantly relieve pain and restore mobility, allowing patients to engage in daily activities more easily and comfortably.
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