🦴 Understanding AVN (Avascular Necrosis) & Hip Replacement Surgery

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) occurs when there is a reduced blood supply to the femoral head, resulting in bone damage and progressive hip pain. If not treated on time, it can lead to collapse of the hip joint, requiring surgical intervention.

Symptoms of AVN

Patients commonly experience:

• Persistent hip, groin, or thigh pain

• Stiffness and reduced range of motion

• Pain that worsens with walking or standing

• Limping due to discomfort

• Difficulty sitting cross-legged or squatting

• Pain even at rest in advanced stages

Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent joint damage.

Treatment Options for AVN

Treatment depends on the stage of AVN, severity of symptoms, and overall health:

Non-Surgical Treatments (Early Stages)

1. Medications

• Pain relievers

• Anti-inflammatory medicines

• Drugs that support bone healing (as prescribed)

2. Physiotherapy

Helps maintain hip mobility and strengthen the surrounding muscles.

3. Activity Modification

• Avoiding high-impact activities

• Switching to low-weight-bearing exercises (cycling, swimming)

4. Assistive Devices

Crutches or walkers reduce pressure on the affected hip.

➡️ These methods help slow progression, but do not reverse AVN.

Surgical Treatments (Moderate to Advanced Stages)

1. Core Decompression

A small channel is drilled into the bone to:

• Reduce pressure

• Improve blood flow

• Slow the progression

Often combined with stem cells or bone grafting.

2. Bone Grafting

Healthy bone tissue (with or without vascular supply) is transplanted to support the affected area.

3. Total Hip Replacement (THR)

Recommended for advanced AVN where the femoral head has collapsed or pain severely limits daily activity.

This involves replacing the damaged hip joint with an artificial implant, restoring function and relieving pain.

Hip Replacement for Both Legs (Bilateral THR)

When both hips are affected:

Single-Stage Bilateral THR

• Both hips replaced in one surgery

• One-time anaesthesia

• One hospital stay

• Faster overall recovery

• Cost-effective

Staged THR

• One hip at a time

• 6–12 weeks gap

• Preferred for patients with medical comorbidities

Benefits of Hip Replacement Surgery with HexaHealth

• Significant Pain Relief

• Improved Mobility & Walking Ability

• Return to Normal Activities

• Long-term joint function with modern implants

• Better overall quality of life

HexaHealth helps you connect with experienced orthopedic surgeons, manage hospital bookings, guide insurance coverage, and ensure a smooth surgical journey.

Important Considerations Before Surgery

1. Recovery Timeline

• Start walking with support in 1–2 days

• Walk independently in 3–4 weeks

• Resume work in 4–6 weeks

• Complete recovery in 2–3 months

Physiotherapy is a major part of recovery.

2. Risks (as with any surgery)

• Infection

• Blood clots

• Implant-related issues

• Anesthesia risks

Your surgeon will evaluate your medical fitness prior to surgery.

Cost of Hip Replacement – What Determines the Price?

The cost varies depending on:

1. Implant Type

• Standard

• High-end imported

• Ceramic / Titanium

• Long-life implants

2. Hospital Category

• Private hospital

• Super-specialty centre

• NABH/NABL accreditation

3. Surgeon Expertise

Highly experienced surgeons may have higher professional charges.

4. Room Type Selected

General ward / semi-private / private / deluxe.

5. Single vs Bilateral Surgery

Bilateral THR cost differs from single hip replacement.

6. Insurance / Ayushman Coverage

Ayushman Card often covers hip replacement, reducing patient expense.

HexaHealth can provide exact price estimates based on your city.

Next Steps for You

To move forward smoothly:

1. Tell Us Your City

We’ll suggest:

• Best orthopaedic surgeons

• Nearby hospitals

• Cost estimates

• Ayushman/insurance coverage

2. Decide on Consultation

HexaHealth can book your appointment with a top specialist.

3. Understand Your Insurance/Ayushman Eligibility

We can help you check:

• Whether hip replacement is covered

• Pre-authorisation requirements

• Hospital empanelment