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.