Abnormalities of the Osseous Structures of the Hip and Peri-Articular Soft Tissues

Abstract

This unit presents a basic protocol for detection and assessment of a large number of disorders arising in the bones of the hip or the surrounding soft tissues, including osteonecrosis, transient osteopenia, fractures, soft tissue injuries, and tumors. All of these disorders can be readily assessed without the use of a contrast agent. The evaluation of intra-articular structures, in particular the acetabular labrum, however, is probably best accomplished with the use of the direct injection of a Gd-chelate contrast agent into the hip joint. The protocol is presented for a 1.5-Tesla system for evaluation of disease in the region of the hip. Modifications for low-field (0.23 to 0.3 T) systems are also discussed.