What is Osteonecrosis?
Osteonecrosis
Osteonecrosis is a condition that occurs when the tissues of the bones die because of the lack of blood supply. Osteonecrosis is a painful condition that will eventually progress with time and might even affect the mobility of the person. This condition takes place when the blood supply to the bone is cut off due to an injury, trauma, etc. Osteonecrosis requires surgery or joint replacements to be corrected.
Osteonecrosis is also known as avascular necrosis. This is a condition that will lead to the death of the tissues in the bone. The body creates new bone tissues as the old ones break down with age. The bones need oxygen and nutrients to stay healthy and to regenerate the tissues. The blood carries these to the bones. When the blood flow to the bones is blocked, it will not be able to create newer tissues. The dying bone will start to crumble and then eventually collapse. Osteonecrosis can affect any joint. However, in the majority of the cases, osteonecrosis is seen to target the hips, jaws, ankles, knees, etc.
- PROCEDURE NAME : Laser Treatment for Piles
- SURGERY TYPE: Minimally Invasive LASER
- HOSPITALIZATION: No Hospitalization
- SURGERY DURATION: 30 minutes
- ANAESTHESIA:Spinal Block / General Anaesthesia
- FULL RECOVERY: 3 - 4 days
TREATMENTS
Diagnosis
The patient will be made to go through a physical examination. The medical professional will inquire about the symptoms and medical history of the person. X-rays and MRI scans will be done to assess the condition of the bones.
Surgery
The treatment of osteonecrosis depends on the severity of the condition and the damage done to the bone. In minor cases of osteonecrosis ice packs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heat treatment, or walking aids such as crutches can be used. Physical therapy can be administered to ease the pain in the joints and to make mobility easier. In severe cases of osteonecrosis, surgery will be required. Some of the common procedures done to treat osteonecrosis are; core decompression, joint replacement, etc. In core decompression, the medical professional will drill holes known as cores into the bones. This will increase blood flow. The surgical procedure might be combined with bone grafts or certain injections so that it can help with healing. In joint replacements, the entire joint is cut away and artificial ones made of high-grade plastics or metal alloys are used to replace it. Artificial knee replacements and artificial hip replacements are done widely and are highly effective.
Causes
- Chronic constipation
- Painful bowel movements
- Nausia
Symptoms
- Discomfort while sitting
- Swelling & Itching
- Painful bowel movements
- Excessive Bleeding
Frequently Asked Questions
What is osteonecrosis?
Osteonecrosis is a disorder in which tissues die as a result of a lack of blood flow. Osteonecrosis is a painful ailment that can worsen with time and may limit a person’s mobility.
Can osteonecrosis be cured?
Treatment will go a long way to slow down osteonecrosis and surgery will replace the dead bones. However, there is no definite cure for osteonecrosis.
Does osteonecrosis cause pain?
Yes. osteonecrosis will cause pain. In the early stages of osteonecrosis, the patient may not even experience discomfort. As the condition worsens, the patient may experience discomfort in the joint, but only when weight is applied to the area. However, as time goes on, the patient may have pain even when lying down.
Where is osteonecrosis commonly seen?
osteonecrosis is seen to target the hips, jaws, ankles, knees, etc.
Can surgery be done to treat osteonecrosis?
Yes. In severe cases of osteonecrosis, surgery will have to be performed to get rid of it.
