MRI spectrum of avascular necrosis of femoral head in patients treated for COVID-19.

Abstract

This prospective observational study aimed to investigate the occurrence of avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head in COVID-19 patients through MRI scans. The study examined the patterns of AVN in 110 individuals who had undergone conventional COVID-19 therapy and reported hip discomfort. This study highlights the importance of considering AVN as a potential complication of COVID-19 therapy, particularly in younger patients who experience hip discomfort. Individuals who had corticosteroid treatment for COVID-19 and experienced hip discomfort during 6 months between January 2022 and August 2022 were included in this study, and an MRI scan was done to observe changes in the hip joint. The results were classified using the Ficat and Arlet classification system. The analysis revealed that AVN was not present in 91.81% of cases. However, Stage I AVN was detected in 4.54% of cases, Stage II AVN in 2.72% of cases, and Stage III AVN in 1.1% of cases. No cases of Stage IV AVN were observed. The study concludes that AVN occurred in 6% of individuals who underwent conventional therapy for COVID-19 and experienced hip discomfort. In these settings (post COVID-19), normal MRI results were more typical, and mild AVN (Stage I) was a frequent finding in MRI scans that were positive.