Core Decompression Overview:
Core decompression surgery is a surgical procedure used to treat avascular necrosis, also known as osteonecrosis, of the hip joint. It is also known as a death of bone; as a result, it causes the collapse of the joint. The general aim of the procedure is to improve blood flow to the section of the bone that may be damaged, stimulate healing of the bone, and therefore prevent further bone destruction. Core decompression Core decompression is a procedure performed under general or regional anesthesia. The two approaches that may be taken are open and arthroscopic. The former is based on a traditional hip incision, whereas the latter takes the route of arthroscopy with small incisions, besides employing a special camera inside the joint itself.Â
Unilateral core decompression is a common approach for AVN diagnosis in one hip, while bilateral core decompression involves surgery on both hips during the same procedure, depending on the condition’s stage and affected joint. Core decompression surgeries are typically performed by orthopedic surgeons in most cases.
Core Decompression Procedure, Recovery, and Post-Procedure Care
Preparation: The surgeon would engage the patient in the case history, medications, and allergies, then perform a physical examination before performing the surgical operation. They could request tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, and blood tests to determine the extent of the condition. They should inform the patient about the use of anesthesia, the recovery period, risks, and how pain will be managed before surgery.
During the surgery: The patient will be placed on an operating table, anesthetized with a general or regional anesthetic, have the area prepared with sterilization, and experience a minimally invasive technique through small incisions. The surgeon uses instruments to create core channels in the femoral head and employs a specialized camera to visualize the joint. When the core channels are created, the surgeon sutures the small incisions shut.
After the surgery: The patient will be monitored in a recovery room and prescribed pain medication to manage postoperative distress after surgery. The patient can either be discharged from hospital directly after surgery in the case of an arthroscopic or a short stay following an open surgery.
Core decompression recovery: Core decompression heals and reestablishes blood flow but usually requires a few months. Crutches or walkers are necessary for 6–12 weeks to avoid putting weight across the hip joint. It is contingent on progression and the extent of AVN when daily activities will be resumed.
Post-procedure care: Core decompression postoperative care:
- The patient will be required to remain in a wheelchair, walker, or crutches for 6–12 weeks.
- Encourage gradual, progressive increase of hip weight-bearing with the help of physical therapy.
- The doctor will monitor the clinical assessment and X-rays.
- Prescription of medication for pain according to requirement.
- Try to avoid those activities that may cause stress and maintain optimal weight.
- Regular checkups with the doctor should be scheduled for monitoring.
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Procedure Name
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        Core Decompression Surgery
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Type of Surgery
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         Arthroscopic or open
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Type of Anesthesia
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          General anesthesia
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Procedure Duration
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           30 min to 2 hours
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Recovery Duration
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         Few weeks to few months
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Benefits of  Core Decompression Surgery
- Improves blood flow to the hip joint.
- Slows down bone degeneration and collapse.
- Allows regain of mobility and daily activities.
- Delays or eliminates the need for total hip replacement, especially for younger patients.
- Offers a minimally invasive approach with smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery, and reduced complications.
