Cell-based therapies for osteonecrosis of the femoral head.

Osteonecrosis of the femoral head is a disabling condition and a known complication of hematopoietic cell transplants (HCT). It is characterized by empty lacunae in the osseous matrix and necrotic marrow elements. The most important risk factor in HCT recipients is steroid exposure, frequently in the context of graft-versus-host disease.