Avascular Necrosis of the Hip
At the Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children we see many cases related to the hip which include Avascular Necrosis of the Hip. Our doctors are well-experienced with each of these conditions and can provide the utmost in care. A unique distraction device has been created by Dr. David Feldman to avoid joint replacement and return patients to their full function.
Definition
Avascular Necrosis of the Hip is caused by an interrupted blood supply to the joint in the hip and results in the loss of bone tissue in that area. Pain is caused in the groin especially when putting weight on the leg and groin pain is a common symptom of Avascular Necrosis of the Hip. Pain often goes down the thigh to the knee with standing or walking worsening the pain. However, a small number of patients do not experience the typical symptoms.
Causes
Damage to the blood supply to the hip can cause Avascular Necrosis of the Hip.
Risk Factors
Except in cases of trauma, since the cause of this condition is unknown, there are currently no known ways to reduce the risk.
Symptoms
During the early stages of Avascular Necrosis of the Hip, patients may not have any symptoms. There may be joint pain even when resting and the range of motion may be affected.
Diagnosis
In addition to a physical examination, x-rays, MRI’s, CAT scans or a biopsy may be performed in addition to a bone scan. (In the bone scan dye is injected into the affected area and a picture of the bone is taken with a special camera.)
Treatment
Surgical Care
There are several surgical procedures used by the Hospital of Joint Diseases Center for Children to treat Avascular Necrosis of the Hip. The choice depends upon the extent of disease and the age and health status of the patient. One operation that is done is the Femoral Varus Osteotomy in which the bone of the upper femur is cut to put it back into the socket. Another type of surgery used is Distraction of the bone. With this method the bone is cut and the two parts are pulled away from each at a slow rate. What results is newly generated bone tissue.
Non-surgical Care
Whenever possible the Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children treats non-surgically. Some of the methods we use for treatment of Avascular Necrosis of the Hip are abduction bracing and physical therapy.
Prevention
Except in cases of trauma, since the cause of this condition is unknown, there are currently no known ways to prevent Avascular Necrosis of the Hip.
Resources
The Wallace B. Lehman, M.D. Center for Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/wallace.html
The New York Institute for Limb Lengthening and Reconstruction http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/limb.html
The Center for Pediatric Rehabilitation and Pediatric Medicine
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/ped_rehab.html
The NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases Pediatric Physical and Occupational Therapy Department
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/rehabilitation.html
Child Life Program at Center for Children
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/child_life.html
Music Therapy at Center for Children
http://www.nyuhjd.org/hjd/centerforchildren/patient/music_therapy.html
To make an appointment at the NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases Center for Children, please call 212-598-6205