Post-COVID Surge: Rising Cases of Hip Arthritis and Avascular Necrosis Among Young Adults

Emerging Orthopaedic Concerns in India

In New Delhi, a troubling trend has surfaced in the wake of the pandemic, with a notable increase in cases of hip arthritis and avascular necrosis (AVN) reported by healthcare professionals across India. This painful condition, which arises from a disruption in blood flow to the hip bone, is increasingly affecting younger and middle-aged individuals.

During the recent 2nd DELHI HIP 360 Conference at Crowne Plaza New Delhi, experts highlighted that the aftermath of COVID-19 has led to accelerated damage to hip joints, resulting in a higher demand for Total Hip Replacement (THR) surgeries nationwide.

Organized by the Delhi Orthopaedic Association in collaboration with the Indian Arthroplasty Association, the conference gathered top orthopaedic surgeons, arthroplasty specialists, and medical residents from across the country to discuss advancements in Total Hip Arthroplasty (THA), complex hip reconstruction, robotic-assisted surgery, and the management of post-COVID hip complications.

Participants noted a significant rise in patients experiencing severe hip pain, limping, stiffness, and mobility issues due to AVN and early-stage hip arthritis.

Recent global studies have indicated a link between high-dose or prolonged steroid use during COVID-19 treatment and the development of osteonecrosis of the femoral head, particularly in patients with pre-existing vascular or metabolic conditions.

Medical professionals observed that AVN, which was once primarily seen in older adults or those with trauma, is now increasingly affecting individuals in their 30s and 40s.

Often, delayed diagnosis allows the condition to progress unnoticed until the hip joint collapses, necessitating total hip replacement surgery to restore mobility and improve quality of life.

Dr. L Tomar, the organizing chairman of DELHI HIP 360 and Director of the Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement Department at Max Hospital, Delhi, stated, “We are witnessing a 40% increase in hip replacement surgeries among younger patients. While steroids were crucial during the pandemic, their indiscriminate or prolonged use has been linked to a rise in osteonecrosis and early degenerative changes in the hip joint.”

He further emphasized the importance of early diagnosis, noting that if AVN is identified in its initial stages, joint-preserving procedures may still be viable before complete hip destruction occurs.

Research published in international orthopaedic journals indicates that steroid-induced AVN can develop within months of exposure, with the hip joint being the most commonly affected area.

Dr. Karun Jain, the conference's organizing secretary and a senior orthopaedic surgeon at Pushpanjali Medical Centre in Delhi, pointed out that one of the major challenges with AVN is that patients often overlook early symptoms like groin pain or stiffness, mistaking them for muscular issues.

“By the time they seek medical help, the hip joint may have already experienced irreversible collapse. Awareness, timely MRI evaluations, and early interventions can significantly reduce disability,” Dr. Jain remarked.

The conference included in-depth discussions on complex primary and revision hip arthroplasty, robotic and navigation-assisted hip surgeries, infection prevention, challenging hip reconstructions, dysplasia management, and enhanced recovery protocols.

Surgeons also explored how innovations in implant design, minimally invasive techniques, and precision-based technologies are enhancing surgical outcomes and shortening recovery times.

Dr. Gaurav Govil, Associate Director of Orthopaedics and Joint Replacement at Max Hospital Patparganj, noted, “Total Hip Replacement is now one of the most successful procedures in modern orthopaedics. With improved implants, advanced surgical planning, and quicker rehabilitation methods, patients can return to their normal lives much sooner. However, the emphasis must remain on early diagnosis and evidence-based treatment to prevent unnecessary disability.”

Experts at the conference warned that without enhanced early screening and preventive orthopaedic care, India could face a significant rise in the demand for hip replacement surgeries over the next decade. They stressed the need for ongoing academic collaboration, surgeon training, and the adoption of modern arthroplasty techniques to improve long-term patient outcomes.

The conference concluded with a strong appeal for increased public awareness regarding persistent hip pain following COVID recovery, responsible steroid usage, and the importance of timely orthopaedic consultations to avert severe joint damage and maintain mobility in younger populations.