A Patient From Iran Consults Dr. Lox for Hip Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
A Patient From Iran Consults Dr. Lox for Hip Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
Tampa, Saint Petersburg and Clearwater, FL
A patient from Iran consults Dennis M. Lox, MD, – an expert in Regenerative Medicine and Sports Medicine. The patient describes herself as physically fit, an avid exerciser, but has developed bilateral hip avascular necrosis (AVN) as a result of possible exogenous corticosteroid administration for the treatment of a mild case of an autoimmune disorder.
The patient has had no real promise of a successful solution to her hip AVN except being told she can always get a total hip replacement. She adamantly wishes to avoid this as she is still in her twenties and ideally would like to continue sports participation. She consulted Dennis M. Lox, MD, for the possibility of stem cell injections as a treatment for her hip AVN.
First, Dr. Lox explained all the details and science behind AVN. Dr. Lox feels it is important for the patient to have proper understanding of the condition in order to make informed consent. Next the stem cell procedure was explained, along with possible expectations. It is important to discuss the range of treatment improvement as some patients excel and others may only slow down the rate of secondary arthritis progression. Yet, whether there is new bone growth or evidence of previous necrotic bone healing, if the secondary degeneration rate is stopped, slowed or regressed this is also a positive point of treatment success and must be explained to the patient at length. It is through the understanding process that key decisions can be made that may shape a future life.
These decisions are important and may have profound effects on a patient’s life.
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.
