Steroid-induced avascular necrosis of the hip in neurosurgical patients: Epidemiological study

Abstract

Background: Avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head is perceived to be a rare complication of short-term steroid therapy for neurosurgical conditions but its precise risk is unknown. Methods: Retrospective review of hospital records between 1994 and 2001. Results: The risk of developing AVN of the femoral head is 0.3% with an incidence of one per one thousand patients per year. Conclusions: It would be advisable to minimize both the dosage and the duration of steroid treatment where possible.