The adult hip

Assessments of joint effusion and synovial proliferation have been the predominant indications for ultrasound of the adult hip joint. The surrounding structures were often difficult to visualize because of their deep location and complex anatomy1 Advances in musculoskeletal ultrasound, however, including transducer technology and operator experience from the more commonly imaged joints, have significantly increased the ability of ultrasound to assess the hip joint and surrounding soft tissue structures. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are complimentary imaging modalities, each offering unique advantages. Ultrasound offers a dynamic real-time study in multiple planes with immediate comparison to the contralateral side. This has proven particularly useful in the evaluation of dynamic pathologies such as the snapping hip syndrome. Direct patient contact allows maneuvers that elicit symptoms to be evaluated while performing the ultrasound study.