Avascular Necrosis

If you are experiencing symptoms of avascular necrosis or AVN, the orthopaedic physicians at UCI Health will diagnose it and work with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan before the condition becomes a deformity. 

They can give you the steps to help reduce your chances of getting avascular necrosis of the hip later on.

Symptoms of avascular necrosis

Avascular necrosis or osteonecrosis, often develops gradually. The earliest symptoms are nonspecific and may be caused by other, less serious health conditions.
If you experience any of the symptoms below and are at risk for avascular necrosis of the hip, see your physician.

• Groin pain is the most common symptom, especially with weight-bearing activities
• Buttock, thigh and knee pain
• Limping

Diagnosing avascular necrosis

If you are experiencing any of the signs or symptoms of avascular necrosis, you can schedule a consultation with a UCI Health orthopaedic physician. 

They will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam, checking the joint's range of motion and tenderness. Imaging tests will also be ordered to get a better look at the bones and help make a conclusive diagnosis.

Avascular necrosis treatment at UCI Health

Your physician will work with you to develop a treatment plan, which will depend on the stage of the disease and your lifestyle. Treatment options include the following:

Conservative treatment

Treating avascular necrosis conservatively may delay the need for surgery in some patients.Taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and other pain relievers can help alleviate symptoms. Non-weight-bearing exercises, such as swimming or cycling, may prevent or minimize the progression of the disease.

Surgery

In the long-term, surgery to treat avascular necrosis may become necessary, especially if your condition is more developed.

There are several surgical procedures used; the method depends upon the extent of the disease, your age and health. Potential surgical options include:

• Bone grafts
• Decompression of the inside of the bone
• Realignment of the bone
• Arthroscopy
• Prosthetic hip replacement

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of getting avascular necrosis of the hip, your physician may suggest the following:

• Avoid injury, particularly bone fractures and joint dislocation
• Keep the dosage and duration of cortisone-like drugs to a minimum
• Avoid decompression disease when diving underwater

Why choose UCI Health for avascular necrosis care?

When referred to an avascular necrosis surgeon by your primary care doctor, you will undergo an examination and imaging. Once the extent of the tear is determined, your surgeon will work with you to develop a treatment plan for recovery.

This usually involves minimally-invasive surgery, followed by up to six months of physical rehabilitation.

Your surgeon will work closely with physical therapists to tailor the rehabilitation process to you specifically. 

As Orange County’s only academic health system, UCI Health has access to the latest technologies and can coordinate care between various specialties to ensure you are getting the most comprehensive care available.