The prevalence and clinicopathological appearance of extension of osteonecrosis in the femoral head. uri icon

Overview

abstract

  • In about 50% of cases, osteonecrosis of the femoral head is known to occupy more than one site. There is controversy as to whether a single focus may increase in size. We have reviewed 606 consecutive femoral heads which had been surgically removed for osteonecrosis. Extension of osteonecrosis was observed in only two (0.3%) and was confirmed histopathologically by the enlargement of the necrotic segment beyond the repair zone formed for the primary necrosis into the adjacent, previously uninvolved bone. In both cases, the necrotic regions were wedge-shaped and occupied over 80% of the femoral head. It appears that an increase in size is extremely rare and that osteonecrosis is due to a single event. Our findings may be of value in assessing the use of joint-salvage procedures for osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

publication date

  • March 1, 1999

Research

keywords

  • Femur Head Necrosis

Identity

Scopus Document Identifier

  • 0032786561

PubMed ID

  • 10204945

Additional Document Info

volume

  • 81

issue

  • 2