Chinese expert consensus on clinical drug prevention and treatment of osteonecrosis of the femoral head（2023)

The in-depth understanding of osteonecrosis of the femoral head (ONFH), has lead more and more patients to seek for medical treatment in the early stage of the disease. Surgical treatment of femoral head necrosis alone is no longer sufficient for the current patients’ demand. The rational and effective use of drugs to strengthen the prevention and early treatment of femoral head necrosis delaying the progression of the disease, is becoming more and more important. This article combines the latest expert consensus and evidence-based medical research on the principles of ONFH diagnosis and treatment according to Chinese and Western medicine and is organized by Chinese experts from the Association Related to Osseous Circulation and the Chinese Microcirculation Society (CSM-ARCO). This consensus was formulated with focus on drug types, characteristics, and safety. Rationality and consideration of basic principles of drug use will provide safe, reasonable, standardized, and effective drug use in medical institutions at all levels. This consensus is only an expert guideline based on literature and clinical experience, not a requirement for mandatory implementation. The clinical practice can be tailored to the actual local conditions to develop appropriate prevention and treatment measures for patients. Keywords: Osteonecrosis of the femoral head; Expert consensus; Drug prevention and treatment