Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 5, 2026

Clinical Protocol of Producing Adipose Tissue-Derived Stromal Vascular Fraction for Potential Cartilage Regeneration
Published on: September 29, 2018
[Avascular necrosis in a patient diagnosed with coxartrosis]
Jasmina Chamat1, Camilla Bergh2, Maziar Mohaddes2
1Sahlgrenska universitetssjukhuset - ortopedkliniken Goteborg, Sweden - Gothenburg, Sweden.
Insights
Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head can mimic coxartrosis, especially in early stages. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is crucial for accurate diagnosis, differentiating AVN from hip arthritis.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
- Bone Diseases
Background:
- Coxartrosis (hip osteoarthritis) is a prevalent cause of hip pain in the elderly.
- Avascular necrosis (AVN), or osteonecrosis, affects the femoral head due to compromised blood supply.
- The exact causes of AVN remain unclear, with numerous risk factors identified, yet many patients have no known risk factors.
Observation:
- AVN typically affects a younger demographic compared to coxartrosis.
- Early-stage AVN often presents without distinct radiographic findings on plain films.
- Distinguishing between AVN and coxartrosis can be challenging initially.
Findings:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enables early diagnosis of AVN.
- MRI is considered the gold standard for noninvasive diagnostic evaluation of AVN.
- The case highlights bilateral AVN initially misdiagnosed as coxartrosis.
Implications:
- Early and accurate diagnosis of AVN is critical for appropriate management.
- MRI's role in differentiating AVN from coxartrosis is essential for timely intervention.
- Understanding AVN's presentation is key to avoiding misdiagnosis in younger patients.
Abstract:
Coxartrosis is a common cause of hip pain among the elderly population. Avascular necrosis (AVN), also known as osteonecrosis, is a disease that most commonly affects the femoral head as a result of decreased blood supply to the bone. The etiology and pathogenesis is still unclear, but there are various traumatic and atraumatic factors that have been suggested as risk factors for AVN. However, almost half of the patients present none of these risk factors. Compared to coxartrosis, AVN typically occurs in a younger population. Initially it can be difficult to differ between these conditions. Plain film radiographic findings are absent in early stages of AVN, but magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can provide early diagnosis. Thereby, MRI is the golden standard of noninvasive diagnostic evaluation. We present a patient with bilateral AVN that initially was diagnosed with coxartrosis.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Ankle Joint
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Arteries of Lower Limbs
Atherosclerosis IV: Nursing Management
Arteries of the Upper Limbs
Bones of the Upper Limb: Radius
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a...

