Uploaded December 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
In this surgical demonstration, Dr. Thomas Youm from New York, NY performs a core decompression procedure for avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head. The technique showcased utilizes the innovative AVN expandable reamer and AlloSync™ Pure demineralized bone matrix (DBM) to treat this condition. Core decompression aims to prevent the need for eventual total hip replacement by addressing AVN in its earlier stages, before subchondral collapse occurs.
Procedure Overview
Dr. Youm demonstrates a minimally invasive technique that allows for seamless delivery of biologics and bone support into the core decompression tract. The procedure includes:
- Precise targeting of the AVN lesion using image guidance
- Creating a decompression tract with the expandable reamer
- Filling the cavity with bone marrow aspirate mixed with AlloSync™ Pure DBM
- Backfilling with QuickSet cement to prevent leakage
The entire procedure is performed through a small 2cm incision, highlighting the minimally invasive nature of this technique.
Technical Details
The demonstration includes both the instrumentation setup and step-by-step surgical technique:
1. Identification of anatomical landmarks and targeting the lesion
2. Bone marrow aspiration using the Arthrex Vortex needle
3. Guide pin placement under fluoroscopic guidance
4. Reaming and cavity creation with the expandable reamer
5. Irrigation of the cavity to remove necrotic bone
6. Insertion of biologics (BMA mixed with AlloSync™ Pure)
7. Backfilling with QuickSet cement
The surgeon also shares clinical pearls and technical tips throughout the procedure to enhance outcomes.
Clinical Applications
This technique is indicated for AVN of the femoral head without subchondral collapse. Dr. Youm emphasizes the importance of proper patient selection and demonstrates how post-operative imaging can confirm successful treatment, showing a case where complete bone healing occurred with no evidence of necrosis one year after surgery.
Learn more about this technique and instrumentation at: arthrex.info/4rJBMep
About Arthrex
Arthrex is a global leader in orthopedic surgical innovation, dedicated to advancing minimally invasive techniques and medical education. Our mission is to help surgeons treat their patients better by providing cutting-edge products, expert training, and comprehensive resources for orthopedic procedures, including sports medicine, joint preservation, and trauma care.
📱 Follow Arthrex on:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/arthrex
Facebook: facebook.com/Arthrex
Instagram: instagram.com/arthrex_inc
X: https://x.com/arthrex
#CoreDecompression #AvascularNecrosis #FemoralHead #Arthrex
In this surgical demonstration, Dr. Thomas Youm from New York, NY performs a core decompression procedure for avascular necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head. The technique showcased utilizes the innovative AVN expandable reamer and AlloSync™ Pure demineralized bone matrix (DBM) to treat this condition. Core decompression aims to prevent the need for eventual total hip replacement by addressing AVN in its earlier stages, before subchondral collapse occurs.
Procedure Overview
Dr. Youm demonstrates a minimally invasive technique that allows for seamless delivery of biologics and bone support into the core decompression tract. The procedure includes:
- Precise targeting of the AVN lesion using image guidance
- Creating a decompression tract with the expandable reamer
- Filling the cavity with bone marrow aspirate mixed with AlloSync™ Pure DBM
- Backfilling with QuickSet cement to prevent leakage
The entire procedure is performed through a small 2cm incision, highlighting the minimally invasive nature of this technique.
Technical Details
The demonstration includes both the instrumentation setup and step-by-step surgical technique:
1. Identification of anatomical landmarks and targeting the lesion
2. Bone marrow aspiration using the Arthrex Vortex needle
3. Guide pin placement under fluoroscopic guidance
4. Reaming and cavity creation with the expandable reamer
5. Irrigation of the cavity to remove necrotic bone
6. Insertion of biologics (BMA mixed with AlloSync™ Pure)
7. Backfilling with QuickSet cement
The surgeon also shares clinical pearls and technical tips throughout the procedure to enhance outcomes.
Clinical Applications
This technique is indicated for AVN of the femoral head without subchondral collapse. Dr. Youm emphasizes the importance of proper patient selection and demonstrates how post-operative imaging can confirm successful treatment, showing a case where complete bone healing occurred with no evidence of necrosis one year after surgery.
Learn more about this technique and instrumentation at: arthrex.info/4rJBMep
About Arthrex
Arthrex is a global leader in orthopedic surgical innovation, dedicated to advancing minimally invasive techniques and medical education. Our mission is to help surgeons treat their patients better by providing cutting-edge products, expert training, and comprehensive resources for orthopedic procedures, including sports medicine, joint preservation, and trauma care.
📱 Follow Arthrex on:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/arthrex
Facebook: facebook.com/Arthrex
Instagram: instagram.com/arthrex_inc
X: https://x.com/arthrex
#CoreDecompression #AvascularNecrosis #FemoralHead #Arthrex










