NORMAL WALKING AFTER TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT SURGERY DUE TO FEMORAL HEAD NECROSIS
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Author: BỆNH VIỆN ĐA KHOA QUỐC TẾ NAM SÀI GÒN
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19/05/2023
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254
Avascular necrosis of the femoral head is a condition that causes deformity and bone destruction of the femoral head, leading to significant hip pain—especially during movement and walking. In advanced stages, it may result in leg shortening, limping, and even loss of mobility or permanent disability. The condition can occur at any age but is most common between 40 and 65 years old, and it affects men more frequently than women.
Persistent Hip Pain Causing Severe Hardship
After a long period of enduring persistent hip pain with every step, Mr. Đ.V.T (60 years old, Dong Nai) had visited multiple healthcare facilities and used various medications, yet his symptoms did not improve. As the pain progressively worsened, his gait became increasingly unsteady, and daily activities grew more difficult. Following a recommendation, he sought examination at the Orthopedics & Traumatology Department of Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital.
Through clinical evaluation and diagnostic imaging, doctors concluded that Mr. T. had avascular necrosis of the right femoral head, accompanied by underlying hypertension. He was advised to undergo total right hip replacement surgery. The major challenge was his advanced age and uncontrolled hypertension. Therefore, the Orthopedic Trauma team conducted a multidisciplinary consultation with the Anesthesiology and Resuscitation Department to ensure safety throughout the surgical process.
iagnosis of Severe Hip Osteoarthritis and Treatment Solutions
Dr. Vo Van Man (Specialist Level II), Head of the Orthopedic Traumatology Department at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital, stated:
“When a patient suffers from long-standing hip osteoarthritis, it severely impacts their health and quality of life. Chronic pain often causes sleepless nights, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Prolonged use of medications for conservative treatment may also lead to complications such as gastric ulcers, gastrointestinal bleeding, and liver or kidney damage.”
In elderly patients, once the joint cartilage is damaged, its ability to regenerate is very low. If the hip joint is severely deteriorated and previous treatment methods have failed to provide relief, hip replacement surgery becomes the most effective solution. It prevents permanent disability, helps patients regain mobility, and significantly improves their quality of life.
The hip replacement surgery lasted approximately 60 minutes and was performed by Dr. Vo Van Man (Specialist Level II), Dr. Huynh Dang Thanh Son (Specialist Level II), Dr. Le Van Quynh (Specialist Level I), and the surgical team of the Orthopedic Trauma Department. The procedure was highly successful: the patient remained stable, experienced no pain, and all hip movements were smooth without postoperative complications. Mr. T. will continue receiving treatment at the Orthopedic Trauma Department along with postoperative physical therapy.
Dr. Huynh Dang Thanh Son (Specialist Level II), Deputy Head of the Orthopedic Traumatology Department, added:
“For patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head, if hip replacement is not performed, the risk of losing the ability to walk is extremely high, and they may become dependent on a wheelchair for the rest of their lives.
Most elderly, overweight patients with underlying medical conditions are especially vulnerable during this period. Without a structured care plan, they may face serious complications such as severe pain, pneumonia, urinary infections, pressure sores, and progressive decline in overall health — even leading to death.”
Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital accepts both Health Insurance and Private Health Insurance.
Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital
No. 88, Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City.
Hotline: 18006767
info@nih.com.vn
Last updated: 10:49 05/12/2025
