Most people ignore minor hip pains because they think it is due to fatigue or sitting for long periods of time. A simple hip pain can sometimes be an indication of a serious problem. Avascular necrosis, or AVN hip is one such condition. This condition is caused by a lack of blood supply to the hip bone, leading to bone weakening.

Many people are unaware of the causes of hip avascular necrosis. The pain is usually mild and goes unnoticed in the early stages. Adults of all ages can be affected by AVN. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment can prevent serious damage.

This blog will teach you about AVN Hip causes, symptoms, early warning signals, AVN Hip diagnosis, and when to seek expert treatments in Delhi NCR.

What is AVN of the Hip?

AVN of the hip is caused by a lack of blood supply to the head of the femur, the ball-shaped portion of the thighbone. To maintain health and strength, the head of the hip bone requires a constant blood supply.

It's similar to a garden hose. The plants begin to dry out when the hose becomes bent. Similar to this, when the blood flow stops or slows down to the hipbone, bone cells start to die. This is why AVN can be called "bone death."

Important: AVN is not caused by infection or arthritis. AVN occurs when the bone does not receive the blood that it needs.

AVN Hip Causes & Risk Factors

AVN Hip Causes | What Causes Avascular Necrosis of the Hip?
AVN could be triggered due to an injury or any other injury. To better understand, AVN medical professionals categorize causes into two broad categories:

1. Trauma-Related Causes

An acute hip injury can result in damage to blood vessels that supply blood to the head of the femoral.

Common trauma-related causes include:

  • Hip fractures
  • Hip dislocations

These types of injuries could alter blood flow, leading the victim to AVN even for months after the incident.

2. Non-Traumatic Causes (No Injury)

Sometimes AVN occurs slowly and without injuries. Different conditions and lifestyles increase the risk of developing it:

  • Steroid medication is used for long periods of time. Prolonged usage of steroid medicines could cause the narrowing or blocking of blood vessels.
  • Consumption of alcohol in excess can cause fat to build up within blood vessels and, as a result, lower blood flow.
  • The habit of smoking, Nicotine damages the blood vessels and reduces the flow of oxygen to the brain.
  • Medical conditions such as the sickle-cell anemia syndrome, Lupus, along with other immune-mediated diseases, can increase AVN risk.
  • Disorders that cause blood clotting can hinder the circulation of blood, and the hip area is a common area affected.
  • The early detection of AVN is crucial since the treatment of AVN at a mild stage could stop or delay the damage.

Early Signs of AVN Hip & AVN Hip Symptoms

The first stages of AVN don't always present visible signs. A majority of people experience mild discomfort that gradually gets worse as bone strength decreases.

The most frequent early symptoms of AVN hip are:

  • Ache as well as sharp pain in the hip
  • The pain is felt throughout the body, such as in the back, hip, or buttocks.
  • The loss of flexibility and stiffness of the hip joint.
  • The pain of standing, walking, or going up a flight of stairs
  • The limp is evident while walking.

Since AVN develops quietly, knowing the warning signs is crucial. The early stage of treatment can stop the hip from collapsing.

How is AVN of the Hip Diagnosed?

Physicians follow a step-by-step process to diagnose AVN.

1. Physical Exam & Medical History

The doctor will ask the patient questions about risk factors such as alcohol intake, steroid medications, and prior injuries.

2. X-rays

Early signs of AVN may appear normal, but they will change as the disease progresses.

3. MRI Scan

MRI is the gold standard in diagnosing avascular necrosis. It can detect the early stages of avascular necrosis before any major symptoms appear.

4. Bone Scan

When an MRI is unavailable, this technique can be used to identify areas with low blood flow.

5. Blood Tests

They may help in diagnosing the underlying causes that may be related to AVN.

When to See a Specialist in Delhi NCR

If your hip pain lasts longer than expected, becomes sharper with time, or eventually starts affecting your daily routine, it's best to consult a specialist. The delay in receiving care could cause the condition to get worse. Many patients like to visit the best orthopedic specialist in Delhi NCR to clearly diagnose and get a personalized treatment plan that helps in protecting their hip and restoring mobility.

The early treatment of hip pain can stop the hip from collapsing, maintain mobility, and prevent major surgical procedures. The orthopedic experts in Delhi NCR can guide you through the surgical and medical options in accordance with the stages of AVN.

Conclusion & Next Steps

If left untreated, AVN can cause serious problems. It is, however, preventable when detected early. You can save your hip by understanding the causes and symptoms of AVN. If you have persistent hip stiffness or pain, do not wait.

Dr. Yugal Karkhur has over 14 years of experience as an orthopedic surgeon. He offers AVN treatment in Delhi NCR. A timely consultation could make a big difference.

FAQs About AVN Hip

1. What are the first indications that you are suffering from AVN hip?

The most common initial signs are slight pain in the hip, the groin, a stiffness that is not apparent until later, and discomfort when walking.

2. How can AVN be an AVN hip diagnosis?

Doctors determine the cause of AVN through physical examination, X-rays, along MRI scans. MRI will be the most precise test.

3. Is AVN treated without surgery?

The early stage of AVN is treated with treatment and medication, while advanced cases require surgery.

4. When should I visit an expert in Delhi NCR?

Visit the Top Orthopedic Doctor in Delhi NCR to ensure you receive the correct AVN Treatment for any persistent hip pain that hinders walking.