Avascular Necrosis of the Ankle in a Ballerina

Avascular Necrosis of the Ankle in a Ballerina. A ballerina with an ankle fracture was treated with Surgery. Postoperatively she developed increasing pain and swelling. Several months later she was diagnosed with avascular necrosis (AVN) of the talus. A recommendation for ankle fusion was rendered. Unfortunately, there was such extensive bone collapse at that point she was not a candidate for Stem Cell Therapy.

Her career in ballet was now ended. It is important to have a high index of suspicion for the possibility of avascular necrosis (AVN) after traumatic injury. The prognosis for continued sports participation is limited after boney joint collapse occurs. AVN that progresses is a form of rapid secondary degeneration arthritis. A key aspect of treatment is to deter the development of this arthritis. Having a thorough understanding of the pathophysiology of avascular necrosis is essential proper management. The patient, both athlete and non-athletes have much to gain from successful treatment of AVN.

If you’re in pain or had an injury and are looking for an alternative to surgery, contact us immediately at one of our locations. Our Main Medical Center located in Tampa Bay, Florida (727) 462-5582 or at Beverly Hills, California (310) 975-7033.