Update on the guidelines for patients with hip replacement and avascular necrosis of the femoral head

Abstract

Avascular necrosis of the femoral head (ANFH) is one of the common causes of hip pain in a young
adult. Since young age is associated with high functional demand, ANFH can have a devastating
effect on quality of life. The natural course of this disease leads to the eventual collapse of the
femoral head, followed by secondary osteoarthritic changes in the hip. Management depends on
many factors, including the severity and location of the necrotic lesion, patient factors, and the
likelihood of collapse. Total hip replacement (THR) is necessary in cases of femoral head collapse,
severe pain, osteoarthritis, or destruction of the hip joint. However, there has been debate as to
whether THR is a viable option for ANFH considering the multiple factors that influence ANFH.
Additionally, factors such as functional outcome after surgery, implant longevity, and the need for
revision surgeries should be considered when performing total hip arthroplasty. In this context,
we carry out this study in order to show the current approach to ANFH.