Publication:

Clinical evaluation of core decompression with bone marrow aspirate concentrate in early-stage avascular necrosis of the hip: a prospective observational study

Background To evaluate the efficacy of core decompression (CD) combined with bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) in early-stage avascular necrosis (AVN) of the hip by assessing pain, stiffness, functional impairment and quality of life (QOL).

Methods This prospective observational study was conducted at Gemcare Kamineni Hospital, Kurnool, on 46 patients with early-stage AVN (ARCO I–III). Patients underwent CD with BMAC. Outcomes were assessed pre- and post-operatively using the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) scale. Data were analyzed using paired t-test.

Results Mean pain severity score decreased from 4.18±0.90 pre-operatively to 2.50±0.86 post-operatively (p<0.05). Joint stiffness improved from 3.31±0.76 to 2.15±0.76 (p<0.05). Physical functioning score improved from 3.68±0.86 to 2.38±0.78 (p<0.05). Total WOMAC score reduced significantly from 3.75±0.90 to 2.38±0.80 (p<0.05).

Conclusions Core decompression combined with BMAC provides significant pain relief, improves hip function and enhances quality of life in early-stage AVN, delaying disease progression and the need for total hip arthroplasty.