How COVID-19 can damage your bones: Avascular necrosis of the hip joint

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a condition where the bone tissue of the hip joint dies due to lack of blood supply. This can cause pain, stiffness, and eventually collapse of…

By Admin | 10 January 2024

Avascular necrosis (AVN) is a condition where the bone tissue of the hip joint dies due to lack of blood supply. This can cause pain, stiffness, and eventually collapse of the bone, leading to arthritis and disability.

AVN affects the femoral head, which is the ball-shaped part of the thigh bone that fits into the socket of the hip. The femoral head is the most common site of AVN, and it usually occurs in people between the ages of 30 and 50.

Some of the symptoms of AVN of the hip joint are:

  • Pain in the hip, groin, thigh, or buttock
  • Difficulty moving the hip or walking
  • Limping or reduced range of motion
  • Bone fracture or joint collapse

Some of the complications of AVN of the hip joint are:

  • Osteoarthritis, which is the wearing away of the cartilage that cushions the joint
  • Bone deformity, which can affect the shape and function of the joint.

AVN of the hip joint can have various causes, such as trauma, steroid use, alcohol abuse, or certain diseases that affect blood flow. However, the exact mechanism and risk factors are not well understood, and more research is needed to confirm the causal link between COVID-19 and AVN.

Some of the factors that may contribute to the development of AVN after COVID-19 infection are:

Steroid use: Steroids are often used to treat severe COVID-19 cases, but they can also impair blood flow to the bones and increase the risk of AVN. Steroids can affect the metabolism of fat cells, which can clog the blood vessels and reduce oxygen supply to the bone tissue. Steroids can also increase the levels of inflammatory cytokines, which can damage the bone cells and cause cell death.

AVN is diagnosed using imaging techniques that can show the changes in the bone tissue and blood flow. Some of the common imaging techniques are:

The treatment options for AVN of the hip joint depend on the stage, severity, and cause of the condition. The goal is to prevent further bone loss, relieve pain, and restore function. Some of the possible treatment options are:

The choice of treatment depends on various factors, such as the age, health, and preferences of the patient, as well as the availability and effectiveness of the options. The best treatment option should be discussed with a doctor who can evaluate the condition and recommend the most suitable course of action.

AVN of the hip joint after COVID-19 infection is a serious condition. It is important to be aware of this possible complication and prevent it by taking the following measures:

By being aware and proactive, you can protect your hip joints and prevent AVN after COVID-19 infection.

 

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