New treatment approaches for osteonecrosis of the femoral head: an overview.

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a debilitating disease that ultimately leads to hip joint destruction. Various efforts have been made in an attempt to enhance the healing of osseous defects in the femoral head before collapse occurs. Examples of noninvasive treatment modalities include pharmacologic measures, electrical stimulation, shock wave therapy, and electromagnetic field therapy. In addition, biologic alternatives will induce new bone formation. Many of these agents or techniques are still undergoing preclinical and clinical trials, and some are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. It is important to review new treatment opportunities that are currently available or on the horizon.