AVN of the hip
What is AVN of the hip?
Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip occurs when blood supply to the femoral head is reduced, causing bone injury and potential collapse of the joint surface. It may be linked to steroid use, alcohol, trauma, blood disorders or may occur without a clear cause.
Common symptoms
Symptoms usually include groin pain, aching with weight-bearing, limp, stiffness and reduced walking tolerance. Early AVN can be painful even before major changes are visible on X-ray.
Diagnosis and imaging
MRI is the most sensitive test for early AVN. X-rays assess collapse and arthritis once disease is more advanced. CT can help define the amount of collapse or deformity when surgical planning is required.
Non-surgical treatment
Early management may include protected weight-bearing, treating risk factors, pain control and monitoring. The suitability of non-surgical care depends on lesion size, location and whether collapse has occurred.
Surgical treatment
Joint-preserving procedures such as core decompression may be considered in early disease before collapse. Once the femoral head has collapsed or arthritis is established, total hip replacement is often the most reliable option.
Recovery and follow-up
Recovery depends on stage and treatment. Core decompression requires protected loading while the bone responds. Hip replacement recovery follows a structured mobilisation and strengthening pathway.
AVN of the hip FAQs
Is AVN the same as hip arthritis?
No. AVN begins as a blood-supply problem in the femoral head. It can progress to collapse and secondary arthritis if the joint surface fails.
How is avn of the hip diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
Can AVN be seen on an X-ray?
Advanced AVN can be seen on X-ray, but early AVN may require MRI because X-rays can look normal.
Will I need surgery for avn of the hip?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
Why is early diagnosis important?
Joint-preserving options are most useful before collapse. Once the joint surface collapses, treatment options become more limited.
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