Aseptic Necrosis (Death) Of Bone
Description
Death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. This can lead to tiny breaks in the bone and the bone's eventual collapse. Avascular necrosis most often affects the head of the thigh bone (femur), causing hip pain. But it may affect other bones as well including the shoulder and knee. Avascular necrosis is seen with injuries to the joints. Excessive use of alcohol and steroids can produce this disorder. Aseptic necrosis is also known as avascular necrosis.
Symptoms
Pain, decreased motion, swelling, pain with movement, stiffness on the joint.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. A bone scan and/or MRI is needed to identify the disorder.
- CBC
- Chem 12
- X-Ray
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
The treatment of aseptic necrosis is dependent on the stage of the condition. Early aseptic necrosis can be treated with a surgical operation called a core decompression. This procedure involves removing a core of bone from the involved area and sometimes grafting new bone into the area. This allows new blood supply to form, preserving the bone. In the later stages surgical joint replacement is required.
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