Avascular Necrosis Information

• Avascular Necrosis

Avascular necrosis is a condition that develops when blood supply to the bones is cut off -- either temporarily or permanently. This section of the eMedTV archives explains avascular necrosis in detail, including causes, symptoms, and treatment.

• Causes of Avascular Necrosis

Causes of avascular necrosis are either traumatic (such as when a joint is injured) or nontraumatic (such as long-term alcohol or corticosteroid use). This eMedTV article explains these causes of avascular necrosis, including possible risk factors.

• Avascular Necrosis Symptoms

Possible avascular necrosis symptoms include osteoarthritis, limited range of motion, and joint pain (the most common). This page of the eMedTV website discusses avascular necrosis symptoms and explains why they vary from patient to patient.

• Avascular Necrosis Pain

Avascular necrosis pain is not often felt in the early stages of the disease. Rather, it gradually worsens as the condition becomes more severe. This page of the eMedTV website describes methods used to treat avascular necrosis pain.

• Avascular Necrosis Diagnosis

Tests used in making an avascular necrosis diagnosis include MRI scans, CT scans, x-rays, biopsies, and more. This section of the eMedTV website explains the tests used to make an avascular necrosis diagnosis.

• Avascular Necrosis Treatment

Avascular necrosis treatment may be conservative and involve medications or exercises; or it may involve some type of surgery. This eMedTV article explains avascular necrosis treatment options in detail, including when each type is generally used.

• Avascular Necrosis Research

Avascular necrosis research studies test ways to diagnose the disease earlier and new and improved treatment methods. This eMedTV article explains these avascular necrosis research studies, including potential benefits for research participants.