Sclerotic zone in femoral head necrosis: from pathophysiology to therapeutic implications

Abstract

This review summarizes the sclerotic zone's pathophysiology, characterization, formation process, and impact on femoral head necrosis. The sclerotic zone is a reaction interface formed during the repair of femoral head necrosis. Compared with normal bone tissue, the mechanical properties of the sclerotic zone are significantly enhanced. Many factors influence the formation of the sclerotic zone, including mechanics, bone metabolism, angiogenesis, and other biological processes. The sclerotic zone plays an essential role in preventing the collapse of the femoral head and can predict the risk of the collapse of the femoral head. Regulating the formation of the sclerotic zone of the femoral head has become a direction worthy of study in treating femoral head necrosis.