Avascular Necrosis (cont.)
Medical Author:
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACRDr. Shiel received a Bachelor of Science degree with honors from the University of Notre Dame. There he was involved in research in radiation biology and received the Huisking Scholarship. After graduating from St. Louis University School of Medicine, he completed his Internal Medicine residency and Rheumatology fellowship at the University of California, Irvine. He is board-certified in Internal Medicine and Rheumatology. Medical Editor:
Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP
Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEPDr. Balentine received his undergraduate degree from McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland. He attended medical school at the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine graduating in1983. He completed his internship at St. Joseph's Hospital in Philadelphia and his Emergency Medicine residency at Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center in the Bronx, where he served as chief resident. IN THIS ARTICLEAvascular Necrosis DiagnosisThe diagnosis of aseptic necrosis can often, but not always, be made with X-rays. By the time changes are apparent by plain film X-ray testing, there has been substantial damage to the bone affected. Therefore, bone changes visible on plain film X-ray are considered a later-stage finding. This makes it important that you share all your medical conditions and social habits with your health-care provider so she can make a decision if you are at risk for avascular necrosis even before plain X-rays reveal this disease. Earlier signs of avascular necrosis can be detected with an MRI scan (magnetic resonance imaging) or suggested by a nuclear bone scan. It is important to note that when avascular necrosis is not caused by trauma, it is possible to have multiple joints involved, such as the hips as well as the shoulders or knees. Next Page: Must Read Articles Related to Avascular Necrosis
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