Avascular necrosis, sometimes known as Osteonecrosis, is a progressive condition that results in the death of bone tissue due to a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply. This condition can cause multiple breaks in a person's bone, thus causing it to collapse. It especially affects the upper part of the femur or the joints.
The condition occurs for many reasons, including radiation damage, alcoholism, trauma, and steroid use.
Without proper treatment, the condition can worsen and can cause joint or hip pain due to the degradation of the bone. Treatment options include Total Hip Replacement (also known as an arthroplasty or Core Decompression)