Avascular Necrosis Specialist Singapore

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a condition that occurs when bone tissue dies because of too little blood supply. With avascular necrosis, the bone eventually collapses after tiny breaks occur. In most cases, the condition affects the thighbone (femur) in the hip area, but it can affect other bones in the body. These areas include the wrist, knee, and shoulder. Avascular necrosis gets worse with time. The condition is also called osteonecrosis, aseptic necrosis, or ischemic bone necrosis.

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) Specialist Singapore

What causes Avascular Necrosis?

Avascular necrosis occurs when blood flow to a bone is interrupted or reduced, which may be caused by:

Injuries to the bone, including a broken bone or dislocated joint
Excessive alcohol intake
Long-term use of steroids
Decompression disease (the bends)
Other medical conditions, diabetes, sickle cell anemia, kidney disease, gout, and Gaucher’s disease (a hereditary disorder that causes many problems , including erosion of the outer layer of the long bones and pelvis).

What symptoms of Avascular Necrosis?

Pain and reduced range of motion in the affected joint
Groin pain that spreads down the thigh to the knee

How is Avascular Necrosis diagnosed?

X-rays. In the early stages of avascular necrosis, X-rays usually appear normal. But X-rays can often reveal bone changes that occur in later stages of the disease.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI scans can show early changes in the bone that may indicate avascular necrosis. MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of internal structures.