Stem Cell Therapy for Knee AVN or Osteonecrosis
Knee avascular necrosis (AVN) also known by several other names including osteonecrosis, has been treated many ways, including stem cells.
The use of Stem Cell Therapy for knee AVN has some inherent advantages over other treatments.
Definition of Avascular Necrosis (AVN)
Loss of blood supply (avascular) to the bone resulting bone cell death (necrosis).
Treatments for AVN
- Rest
- Immobility
- Medications
- Core decompression (Micro-fracture)
- Vascular grafting
- Knee joint replacement
Other Names for AVN
- Osteonecrosis
- Ischemic necrosis
- Aseptic necrosis
- Bone infarction
AVN Causes
- Trauma
- Idiopathic (unknown)
- Steroids (cortisone)
- Excessive Alcohol intake
- Decompression sickness
- Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupus
- Radiation therapy and Chemotherapy
- Gaucher’s disease
- Sickle cell disease
- Coagulation Disorders
The various associated risk factors for knee avascular necrosis (AVN) may affect long term outcome differently.
The same is true of individual differences in patients. All these factors must be carefully evaluated when decisions are made about stem cell treatment for knee AVN.
Stem Cell Therapy is much less invasive, and is not associated with the prolonged recovery as seen in surgery such as, core decompression, vascular grafting, and knee joint replacement.
Selecting the appropriate treatment is an important decision. Knee joint replacement is irreversible. This is especially significant for younger patients and athletes. Stem Cell Therapy may alter this course, delay knee replacement for years allowing future options for patients with knee avascular necrosis (AVN).
Dennis M. Lox, M.D. has worked with many patients with avascular necrosis, including professional athletes as well as weekend warriors. In one case, he helped a high school athlete avoid ankle fusion and achieve a college scholarship.
Serving Patients in Beverly Hills, CA and Clearwater, FL
With offices in the Los Angeles metropolitan area of Beverly Hills, Califorina and Tampa Bay, Florida, Dr. Lox makes himself available to treat patients from around the world.
If you are diagnosed with avascular necrosis, book a consultation with Dr. Lox. He has seen many AVN cases and helped his patients achieve their goals of avoiding joint surgery.
For immediate assistance call (727) 462-5582 for the Clearwater, FL office or (310) 975-7033 for the Beverly Hills, CA office.
