Core Decompression With or Without Cement Packing for ONFH

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH) is difficult to treat as collapse frequently occurs after core decompression (CD). This may be due to the failure to provide structural support during revascularization and healing. Reports of polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) packing of the femoral head after CD for ONFH have noted favorable results. This study was undertaken to determine whether the addition of PMMA packing to CD provides any benefit to progression-free survival (PFS) and conversion to total hip arthroplasty-free survival (CFS). Secondary objectives were to assess for differences in functional outcomes and predictive factors for progression of the disease.