Steroid-induced avascular necrosis of the hip in neurosurgical patients: epidemiological study.
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.
Wong
George Kwok Chu
GK
Division of Neurosurgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
Poon
Wai Sang
WS
Chiu
Kwok Hing
KH
D000328:Adult; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D005271:Femur Head Necrosis / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000453:epidemiology*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019635:Neurosurgical Procedures; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013256:Steroids / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000009:adverse effects*
D013256:Steroids; D003907:Dexamethasone