Avascular osteonecrosis is a potential complication of sickle cell disease. It is an independent risk factor for acute care utilization.
Patient selection: sickle cell disease (SCD)
More common sites:
(1) hip (femoral head and/or acetabulum)
(2) proximal humerus
Other sites:
(1) facial bones, including at the TMJ
(2) scaphoid
(3) talar neck
Risk factors:
(1) multiple vaso-occlusive crises
(2) history of previous osteonecrosis
(3) high-normal or elevated platelet count
