Avascular Necrosis (AVN), also called osteonecrosis, is a serious bone condition caused by the loss of blood supply to bone tissue. Without sufficient blood flow, bone cells die, leading to structural weakness, pain, and eventual collapse of the affected joint. The most common site of AVN is the hip joint, but it can also affect the knees, shoulders, ankles, and wrists.

One of the common questions patients ask is: “Can AVN spread to other joints?” The simple answer is that AVN does not spread in the way infections or cancers do, but it can affect multiple joints at the same time or over time. This usually depends on the underlying cause, the patient’s health, and lifestyle factors.

Can AVN Spread? Understanding the Concept

AVN is not an infectious or contagious condition, so it does not “spread” from one joint to another in the traditional sense. However, AVN can appear in multiple joints either simultaneously or sequentially.

Risk Factors That Lead to Multi-Joint AVN

Certain conditions make it more likely for AVN to involve more than one joint:

Long-term corticosteroid use (for asthma, autoimmune diseases, transplants)
Excessive alcohol consumption
Blood disorders like sickle cell anemia, thalassemia, clotting abnormalities
Autoimmune diseases such as lupus
Injury or trauma affecting both joints (e.g., bilateral hip fractures)
Radiation therapy or chemotherapy
Metabolic conditions that interfere with bone health

Symptoms of AVN in Multiple Joints

The symptoms are similar across different joints but may vary in severity. Common signs include:

Persistent pain that worsens with activity and improves with rest
Pain radiating to surrounding areas (e.g., groin pain for hip AVN, shoulder stiffness for humeral AVN)
Reduced range of motion in the affected joint
Limping (if hips or knees are involved)
Stiffness or locking sensation in advanced stages

When AVN affects multiple joints, patients may experience generalized movement restrictions and disability, significantly impacting quality of life.

Can AVN in One Joint Predict It in Another?

In many cases, yes. Studies show that:

If AVN is diagnosed in one hip, the other hip has a 40–70% chance of being affected within a few years.
Patients with systemic risk factors often show AVN in more than one joint at the time of diagnosis.

This is why doctors often recommend imaging of the opposite joint, even if the patient feels no symptoms.

Treatment of AVN Affecting Multiple Joints

The treatment approach depends on:

The stage of AVN (early vs. advanced)
The number of joints involved
Patient’s age and overall health
Underlying causes

Advanced Technology in AVN Treatment

Modern advancements have transformed how AVN is treated, especially when multiple joints are involved.

Laser-Assisted Core Decompression: Uses laser energy to remove dead bone tissue with precision, promoting faster healing.
Stem Cell Therapy (SVF or Bone Marrow Stem Cells): Healthy stem cells are injected into the affected joint to regenerate bone tissue.
3D Imaging and Navigation Surgery: Provides surgeons with accurate mapping of bone damage for precise intervention.
Minimally Invasive Implants: Helps preserve joint function with reduced recovery time.

These technologies not only reduce the need for early joint replacement but also improve long-term outcomes for younger patients.

Prevention of AVN in Other Joints

While not all cases can be prevented, the risk of AVN affecting multiple joints can be reduced by:

Limiting alcohol intake
Avoiding unnecessary long-term steroid use
Treating underlying blood disorders early
Maintaining a healthy weight
Regular monitoring with MRI if one joint is already affected

Recommendation

If you are suffering from joint pain or have already been diagnosed with AVN in one joint, it is essential to get evaluated for other joints as well. With modern diagnostic tools and advanced treatments like laser surgery and stem cell therapy, managing AVN has become safer and more effective.

For specialized consultation and advanced AVN treatment, visit Sahaj Hospital, where expert care meets cutting-edge technology.

Sahaj Hospital
15/2 South Tukoganj, Behind Hotel Surya,
Indore, Madhya Pradesh

Key Takeaways

AVN does not “spread” like an infection but can appear in multiple joints over time.
Risk factors such as steroids, alcohol, and systemic diseases increase the likelihood of multi-joint AVN.
MRI is the most reliable method for detecting AVN early in multiple joints.
Advanced treatments like stem cell therapy, laser-assisted surgery, and minimally invasive techniques offer new hope for patients.
Early diagnosis and proactive care can prevent disability and preserve joint function.

Conclusion

AVN is a progressive disease that may affect more than one joint, though it does not spread directly from one to another. The real challenge lies in its silent progression and its tendency to involve multiple sites in patients with systemic risk factors. While AVN in one joint raises the risk of it appearing in another, early diagnosis with advanced imaging and treatment with modern technology can stop the disease from causing widespread damage.

Patients who understand their risks and seek medical advice early can preserve mobility, reduce complications, and live a better quality of life.

Can AVN Spread to Other Joints?