How Serious is Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?

Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis) is a serious condition that results in the death of bone tissue due to a lack of blood supply. While anyone can be affected, it is more common among individuals with certain medical conditions or who have experienced trauma in the area.

Avascular necrosis of the hip may cause debilitating pain or other complications if not treated early, so seek attention from a trained medical professional if you think you have this condition.

Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta (IOA) has helped countless patients find relief from hip pain through cutting-edge treatments like Regenexx®. Learn about our comprehensive approach by calling to meet with Dr. Christopher Williams in Atlanta, GA.

What causes avascular necrosis?

Osteonecrosis occurs when proper blood flow to the bone tissue is disrupted. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including:

Trauma: A direct blow or dislocated joint can damage blood vessels and interrupt proper blood flow.
Fat deposits in blood vessels: Fat buildup may cause small blood vessels to narrow and block blood flow to the tissue.
Medical conditions: Diseases like sickle cell anemia reduce the amount of oxygen-rich blood flow to the bone tissue.
Cancer treatments: Treatments involving radiation weaken the bone and damage blood vessels.

Patients who take steroids regularly or abuse alcohol are also at an increased risk of developing avascular necrosis.

What happens when osteonecrosis is left untreated?

Some people do not feel pain in the early stages of avascular necrosis. This is because our bodies are usually adept at compensating for the loss. However, symptoms may appear as the disease progresses. This may include pain and discomfort when putting weight on certain joints. Hip pain may also be felt in areas like the groin, thigh, or buttocks.

Untreated avascular necrosis does worsen and may eventually cause the bone to collapse. Some people develop severe arthritis because the bone loses its smooth shape and rubs against other bones.

How does IOA treat avascular necrosis?

Orthobiologics are used to help the body heal by using the patient’s own natural abilities. Our Regenexx procedures involve extracting cells through bone marrow aspiration or a blood draw to create platelet rich plasma (PRP). Dr. Williams then processes and re-administers the finished product into the treatment area.

Regenexx has shown to be effective when methods like medication, physical therapy, and other conservative measures are not effective, and if surgery is not an option. This procedure can help promote healing and relieve hip pain caused by avascular necrosis. Our team is proud to offer this minimally invasive option for patients so they can finally experience relief.

What happens during a Regenexx consultation?

Your first step is to meet with Dr. Williams for an osteonecrosis assessment. During this visit, we review your full medical history and any current symptoms that interfere with your quality of life. Patients are encouraged to describe their pain in as much detail as possible and bring along any recent imaging tests to their appointment.

From there, IOA develops a personalized Regenexx treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and goals. This may include a combination of orthobiologic options and other conservative treatments. The goal is always to help you find long-term relief without resorting to surgery.

Treat pain from avascular necrosis

Avascular necrosis can be debilitating, but you do not have to suffer any longer. Interventional Orthopedics of Atlanta offers advanced orthobiologic minimally invasive solutions, like Regenexx, for patients seeking an alternative to prescription medications and surgery. Learn more by calling to meet with Dr. Christopher Williams in Atlanta, GA. We can help you find long-term relief so you can return to your active lifestyle.