Avascular Necrosis Shoulder | Washington DC, Maryland, Virginia | MedStar Health

Avascular necrosis shoulder occurs when a region of bone dies as the result of loss of its blood supply. This condition can be caused by a number of things including trauma, the use of corticosteroids, excessive alcohol consumption, and as a result of some disease states. Symptoms vary depending on the cause, but shoulder pain is common. Avoiding injury to the shoulder that is affected is the first line of treatment to attempt to preserve the affected joint. Treating any underlying cause of avascular necrosis of the shoulder is essential to minimize progression of disease. The surgical management includes joint-preservation operations that improve blood supply to the affected bone. When it has progressed to a significant stage and the bone has collapsed, shoulder replacement surgery may be required.

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