Cytotherapy of osteonecrosis of the femoral head: a mini review

The pathogenesis and aetiology of nontraumatic osteonecrosis of the femoral head has not been revealed completely. However, with advances in stem cell research and regenerative medicine, it is believed that the onset of osteonecrosis of the femoral head probably has a cellular origin, and the possible therapy of osteonecrosis of the femoral head based on cytotherapy has great potential. In this review, the aetiology of osteonecrosis of the femoral head, animal experiments and clinical applications of cytotherapy are summarized and analysed. Current problems and future challenges are discussed.