What to expect from osteotomy for avascular necrosis of the hip

The surgeon plans the cut using your symptoms, examination and imaging. The bone is realigned so the healthier part of the femoral head carries more load. Fixation devices hold the new position while bone healing begins. The operation does not restore dead bone instantly, and suitability depends on the stage and shape of the joint.

After surgery, hip soreness, swelling and limited mobility are expected. Crutches or a walker may be needed while your surgeon controls how much weight reaches the leg. Physiotherapy focuses on safe hip movement, strength and walking mechanics.

Before surgery, arrange help with meals, bathing and stairs, and discuss medicines that affect bleeding or healing. Follow the fasting and medication instructions from your hospital. At home, use the walking aid exactly as taught and keep follow-up appointments for wound checks and imaging.

Build activity gradually. Gentle exercises may begin early, but impact, twisting and unapproved weight-bearing can overload the healing area. Tell the team if pain remains difficult to control or progress in walking suddenly stops.

Contact your surgical team promptly for increasing wound redness, drainage, fever, worsening pain, new calf swelling or breathlessness. Sudden chest pain, severe breathing difficulty, or a cold, pale or numb foot needs emergency care. Do not wait for the next routine appointment when these changes occur.

Ask which part of the hip will be realigned, how much weight you may place on the leg, which exercises are appropriate, how fixation will be monitored, and what findings would change the treatment plan.