Magnetic resonance imaging of the hip

Abstract

Standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as MR arthrography (MRA) have been important diagnostic tools to assess for a spectrum of clinical presentations related to the hip. MRA has allowed the radiologist to closely examine intracapsular structures such as the acetabular labrum. In this article, we provide a general review of soft tissue and osseous anatomy of hips, especially focusing on the MR appearances of the acetabular labrum and the osseous morphology of the greater trochanter and ischial tuberosity with their muscle and tendon attachments. In addition, current topics in recent literature will be discussed such as femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and rotator cuff tears of the hip.

Diagnostic accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance arthrography of the hip is dependent on specialist training of the radiologist

“…It can clearly demonstrate some intra-articular defects such as large deep cartilage deficiencies or avascular necrosis, however, it may be less consistent at demonstrating labral tears and partial thickness cartilage defects [1,2]. When non-contrast MRI of the hip is assessed by musculoskeletal radiologists, the accuracy of detecting labral tears and articular cartilage defects may be above 90% [3].…”

Physical Examination and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Stress-Related Bone Injuries in Tuber Ischiadicum

“…Frequency and/or excessive load to the growing skeleton can result in an SRBI and pain as symptoms [5]. Stress reactions or stress fractures in the enthesis in the pelvic girdle skeleton can therefore indicate the site of the pelvic pain [5,7,8,9,10]. This stress reaction or stress fracture has a better tendency to heal if recognized early [7].…”

Femoroacetabular Impingement: Evidence of an Established Hip Abnormality

“…At 1.5 T, MR arthrography is considered the modality of choice for accurately determining the location and extent of labral avulsion and cartilage lesions (31)(32)(33). MR arthrography is considered the reference standard and clearly depicts the main diagnostic imaging features of FAI, cartilage, and labral lesions (34)(35)(36)(37)(38)(39)(40). Wellinformed and experienced referring surgeons continue to place emphasis on the use of radially acquired MR images for a complete review of joint articular surfaces and bone contours and confi gurations.…”