Imaging Modalities in the Preoperative Assessment of Femoroacetabular Impingement and Hip Dysplasia: Determining Best Practices.

ABSTRACT

¼ In the last decade, significant progress has been made in understanding hip pain, especially related to femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) and hip dysplasia (HD), which collectively affect over 20% of the population.¼ Preoperative imaging, including plain radiographs, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and ultrasound (US), plays a pivotal role in diagnosing FAI and HD. Imaging precision, standardized techniques, and accurate interpretation are crucial for effective treatment planning.¼ The continual advancements in imaging techniques, especially seen in MRI (arthrograms, application of leg traction, and delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage), represent important strides in the precise assessment of pathology associated with FAI and HD.¼ By incorporating these advancements into routine imaging protocols, healthcare providers can ensure a comprehensive understanding of hip joint dynamics, enabling more accurate diagnosis and effective management strategies for patients with FAI and HD, ultimately leading to improved clinical outcomes.