What is Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the Femoral Head?
Avascular necrosis (AVN) occurs when bone dies because it doesn't get enough blood flow. The femoral head is the “ball” of the ball-and-socket joint in your hip.
The thighbone (your femur) fits into the cup-shaped socket of your pelvis. Muscles, tendons, and ligaments hold the joint in place.
Without enough blood flowing to this joint, the bone dies and the joint weakens resulting in bone necrosis.
Other names for avascular necrosis (AVN) include:
- Osteonecrosis
- Aseptic necrosis
- Ischemic necrosis
Avascular necrosis causes and risk factors
AVN often occurs in long bones like the femur. Unlike other bone disorders, this happens most often in men between age 40 and 50.
Untreated injuries and diseases can cause AVN.
Other causes include:
- Injury, such as a major impact from an accident or during sports.
- Complications of a hip fracture or dislocation.
- Blood clots or inflammation.
- Legg-Calve-Perthes disease (in children).
Avascular necrosis (AVN) risk factors include:
- Sickle cell disease.
- Gout.
- Lupus.
- Long-term use of corticosteroids.
- Heavy alcohol consumption over time.
AVN complications and prevention
Left untreated, AVN can cause the tissue in the hip joint to die. Eventually, the bone can collapse.
In some cases, drugs like corticosteroids can cause this condition to worsen.
If you've taken corticosteroids for a while, talk to your doctor about switching to a different medication to lower your risk of AVN.
The best way to prevent AVN is to maintain strength and flexibility. Be sure to warm up before any physical activity and include strength training in your workouts.
Learn more about AVN and hip problems
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