Osteonecrosis.

Last updated Monday, December 27, 2004

Diagnosis and evaluation

Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of osteonecrosis is important in order to lessen damage to bone.

In its earliest stages, the condition can be difficult to diagnose. A careful history and physical examination may provide evidence that the affected joint causes pain on movement. Diagnosis at this stage is best made by X-rays and some of the new computerized scanning procedures.

As the condition progresses, the death of bone often leads to changes within the bone and nearby joints so that a routine radiograph shows these changes. All too often, permanent damage has already developed by this point.

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