Idiopathic Avascular Necrosis

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Idiopathic Avascular Necrosis (AVN) Occurs Without a Known Cause . Sometimes AVN (Avascular Necrosis) can be linked to trauma or excessive corticosteroid use, however in idiopathic Avascular Necrosis the reason is elusive. Avascular necrosis has been referred to as ischemic necrosis, aseptic necrosis, osteonecrosis, bone infarction, and bone infraction. All terms meant to describe a condition in which the blood supply to the bone has been disrupted and bone cell death (necrosis)occurs. As the etiology of idiopathic Avascular Necrosis remains elusive, so does the understanding of why some patients develop AVN in both hips or both knees, or why some develop AVN in a hip and an knee.

Dennis M. Lox, MD,, a Sports and Regenerative Medicine Specialist has seen cases where the femur is involved proximally at the hip and dismally at the knee. Or the tibia may have involvement at the knee and distal at the ankle mortise. AVN may have circumscribed focal lesions at the femoral head or islands of AVN throughout the femur proximally extended distally. The great problem with AVN is the secondary degeneration that occurs as a result of necrotic bone collapse. If the lesion is small and joint collapse does not occur the prognosis is more favorable.

A good rule is if the diagnosis is made early and appropriate treatment is initiated early on the prognosis may be better. This certainly holds for the use of Stem Cell Therapy. If the AVN is diagnosed quickly, and a skilled physician such as Dr. Lox is consulted then recommendations can be made which may allow greater options to use Stem Cell Therapy in a way to promote maximal healing if possible. Stem cells can aid in revascularization and also in formation of new bone growth. Both are key to initiating effective repair in AVN.

Dennis M. Lox, MD, serves patients in the greater Tampa Bay area, including, Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa, New Port Richey, Sarasota, Orlando and Spring Hill. He has been pleased to accommodate the needs of patients throughout Florida, the United States, the Western Hemisphere, and Europe, as well. Located in the 33765 area, our office can be reached at (727) 462-5582.