What Causes Hip Necrosis? Risk Factors You Should Know

Hip necrosis, also called avascular necrosis (AVN), happens when the blood supply to the hip bone is reduced or cut off. Without enough blood, the bone tissue weakens and may eventually collapse. While it can develop slowly, catching hip necrosis early can help prevent serious joint damage.

Dr. Alexander S. McLawhorn, an experienced orthopedic surgeon in New York, New York, and Stamford, Connecticut, specializes in hip replacement, hip resurfacing, and robotic-assisted surgery. He helps patients restore movement and reduce pain using advanced surgical techniques.

What Causes Hip Necrosis?

Several factors can affect blood flow to the hip joint, which may increase your risk of AVN:

• Injury or Trauma: A fracture or dislocation of the hip can damage the blood vessels that supply the bone. If the bone doesn’t get enough blood, it begins to break down.
• Long-Term Corticosteroid Use: Corticosteroids, often used to treat inflammation, can slow blood flow to bones when taken in high doses for a long time. This may lead to bone weakening and AVN.
• Heavy Alcohol Use: Excessive alcohol use can cause fat to build up in blood vessels, reducing circulation to the hip bone and increasing the risk of necrosis.
• Medical Conditions: Some health issues, like sickle cell anemia, lupus, and clotting disorders, can affect blood flow and lead to bone damage over time.
• Cancer Treatments: Radiation and chemotherapy can weaken bones and reduce blood supply to the hip, making AVN more likely.
• Long-Term Osteoporosis Medication Use: Certain osteoporosis drugs, called bisphosphonates, may increase the risk of AVN when used for many years.

Learn More About Treatment Options for Hip Necrosis

When hip necrosis leads to joint damage, hip replacement or resurfacing could be your best path to relief. Dr. McLawhorn uses the latest robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques to improve joint function with less downtime. He performs over 600 hip surgeries annually and has helped many people regain their mobility.

Getting the right treatment early can help prevent further damage. Dr. Alexander McLawhorn provides expert orthopedic care in New York, NY, and Stamford, CT. Call NY: 212-606-1065 or CT: 203-705-2113 to schedule a consultation.