Treatment of femoral head necrosis with free vascularized fibula grafting: a preliminary report.

Since October 2000, 56 hips in 48 patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head were treated with free vascularized fibular transplants. The average follow-up was about 16 months. The Harris hip scores of all stages were improved during follow-up. Most femoral heads showed improvement (39 hips, 69.6%) or were at least unchanged (14 hips, 25.0%) on X-rays. The results show that a free vascularized fibular graft would be a valuable procedure for femoral head necrosis. By this method, we can avoid or delay progress of the disease, and improve the function of the hip and quality of life.