Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis)
Avascular necrosis (osteonecrosis)
Avascular necrosis occurs when the blood supply to tissue, such as cartilage and bone, is decreased or stopped. Without an adequate blood supply, the tissue breaks down and dies.
Avascular necrosis may be caused by an injury, such as forceful impact in an auto accident, or may occur as a complication of a hip fracture or dislocation. Conditions such as sickle cell anemia, gout, and lupus may lead to avascular necrosis. Long-term use of alcohol or medicines, such as corticosteroids, increases the risk of avascular necrosis.
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman, MATC |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 25, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC |
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