Case Reports on Avascular Necrosis of the Hip Joints in Pediatric Oncology Patients. Evaluation and Efficacy of Debridement Treatment.

Abstract

Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is a recognized complication of steroid and cytostatic treatment commonly used for leukemia, lymphoma and other cancers. It is often linked to high doses of oral and intravenous corticosteroids and extended therapy duration. AVN occurs due to a temporary or permanent loss of blood supply to the bone, leading to bone necrosis. The femoral head is the most frequently affected site. Patients with AVN typically experience pain and restricted joint motion. The primary goal of treatment is to improve joint function and prevent further bone damage. Modern therapeutic approaches include physical therapy and surgical interventions such a core decompression with bone substitute filling or total hip replacement. In this article, we present two cases of AVN in pediatric oncology patients treated with the former surgical approach - core decompression and bone substitute filling.