Avascular Necrosis of the Hip or Femur
Patients who are told they may have AVN are usually surprised and confused by the conflicting information they receive, which leads them to search for alternative strategies. Among those alternatives is Regenerative Medicine, specifically, Stem Cell Therapy. AVN arises when the blood supply to a region of bone becomes compromised, leading to bone cell death or necrosis.
What Is Avascular Necrosis?
Avascular necrosis occurs most frequently from trauma and the hip is the most frequently encountered joint with AVN. This leads to frustration for patients because no known cause or risk factor is readily identified, also known as idiopathic. Other frequent causes or risk factors include excessive corticosteroids (cortisone), excessive alcohol use, Rheumatologic diseases, radiation and chemotherapy, and sickle cell disease.
Steps of Destruction
Unusual presentations develop, which is why the consultation of an expert is important. Dennis M. Lox, M.D., has treated AVN and is familiar with treatment options including Regenerative Medicine. A frequent recommendation for hip AVN is a hip replacement, recommended by a surgeon. Early diagnosis and consultation with an experienced physician in the treatment of hip and other forms of avascular necrosis are paramount. The key issue is the region of dead or necrotic bone may collapse, leading to a rapid destruction of the hip joint.
Avascular Necrosis Treatment Options
Athletes with hip AVN receive a recommendation from orthopedic surgeons for a hip replacement surgery but Dr. Lox provides an alternative. This is terrifying not just to a patient, but to the athlete, as this often means that it is an end to their sports career. This has led many to explore alternative treatment options such as Regenerative Medicine. The ability to help the body heal itself without surgery is a cornerstone of Regenerative Medicine and Tissue Engineering and Stem cell research are key aspects of Regenerative Medicine, making this appealing to athletes. Regenerative Medicine saves Athletes sports career and leads the patient to live a more productive and alters the progressive nature of degenerative arthritis.
Tampa Bay, Florida (727) 462-5582
Beverly Hills, California (310) 975-7033
