Question
My 23 yr old son has bi-lateral Avascular Necrosis (due to steroid use for Crohns).  He has been putting off hip replacement for 2 years because of his young age.  His left
hip is totally collapsed.  Can this cause serious nerve damage to his leg?

Answer
Jane

As you can see from my profile, I had my first of many hip replacements starting with bi lateral replacements at age 16.  I am a big proponent of not waiting to get this done.  I know what some doctors say, but at 23 your son is now unable to do things that others his age are doing.

If I had to do it again, I would.  I was on crutches and did not lead a normal life of a teen ager until I got my replacements.  The pain with AVN is terrible and if your son's hip has collapsed, he is in pain.

A neurologist would have to do a work up on your son to ascertain if there is nerve damage or not.  I would assume that there is a chance that nerve damage can occur due to the AVN.


If your son's quality of life is being affected, you might want to just have a consult with a a few orthopedist to look at his options.

Sharon