In a striking revelation in the ongoing study of COVID-19 aftermath, Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai Central has documented several instances of Avascular Necrosis (AVN) or bone death in patients recovering from the infection. AVN, a condition characterized by the death of bone tissue due to lack of blood supply, is particularly affecting the hip joint, a vital part of the human locomotive system.
Among numerous patients, two individuals, Mr. Dhananjay Vasant Wagaskar, a 38-year-old male, and Ms. Ragini Yadav, a 26-year-old teacher, reported severe pain in the region around their hip joints. Although Mr. Dhananjay was a confirmed COVID-19 case who received steroid treatment, Ms. Ragini did not have a documented COVID-19 history, presenting an intriguing pattern.
Subsequent MRI scans identified AVN in both patients, indicating a possible association with COVID-19, whether they had been treated with steroids or not. These revelations throw light on the significant challenge that healthcare providers face while dealing with the long-term effects of COVID-19, commonly referred to as Long COVID.
Dr. Mudit Khanna, a Senior Consultant and Orthopaedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon at Wockhardt Hospitals, emphasizes the necessity of early detection. An MRI scan is crucial in diagnosing AVN, especially in its early stages, where X-Rays might not reveal the issue. If caught early, invasive procedures like Hip Replacement Surgery can be avoided, preserving the natural joint.
