Aseptic necrosis is a serious illness. It is caused by a violation of the blood supply to any part of the body. This is especially dangerous if the food comes from one artery. As a result, tissue necrosis occurs. Such a zone may include the head of the femur. This disease can also affect the hip joint.
What causes cell death? It's all about disrupting the flow of blood, which brings nutrients and oxygen. This may be a consequence of diseases such as lupus erythematosus, pancreatitis. Radiation can also lead to this ailment.
There is an opinion that aseptic necrosis of the femoral head can be caused by alcohol abuse and severe physical exertion. Some athletes take high doses of hormonal drugs such as glucocorticoids. This leads to circulatory disorders, as they thicken the blood. It is believed that divers are also susceptible to this disease, since during their work they experience sharp changes in atmospheric pressure. But aseptic necrosis often has an undiagnosed cause. Doctors say that the disease can affect both legs.
The disease is manifested by acute pain. Especially, it increases with weight transfer to the affected leg. It is felt in the gluteal or inguinal region, sometimes giving to the front of the thigh. If you do not start treatment, then the destruction of the joints will continue and in the future there will be lameness. Further, a complete loss of motor function is possible.
Aseptic necrosis of the hip joint is manifested by similar symptoms. Only knee pain is added to them. The most common cause of illness is injury. It is important to consult a doctor as soon as possible and begin treatment. Otherwise, there is a risk of losing the ability to move.
In order to diagnose aseptic necrosis, it is best to undergo an examination with MRI. Also, the doctor will hold a conversation, ask about chronic diseases, alcohol and medication. He will also palpate the joint and test its function.
Aseptic necrosis can be determined using x-rays. The disadvantage of this method is that in the early stages it is impossible to detect pathological changes in the bone. Therefore, scintigraphy is used to clarify the diagnosis. In this case, a small amount of a special drug is injected into the patient's body. Then, using a special apparatus, they check the body. Affected joints will appear as a single spot. The most advanced diagnostic method is MRI. After it, you can get pictures of slices and different projections.
Aseptic necrosis is treated comprehensively. It all depends on the stage of the disease and the severity of the symptoms. Today, there are discussions among doctors about the feasibility of using medications that are aimed at restoring blood circulation. To reduce pain, analgesics and anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed. In difficult cases, surgery is required. But in the early stages, aseptic necrosis can be successfully cured. Therefore, it is very important to consult a doctor in a timely manner.