MR and MR Arthrography

MR arthrography has become an important tool for the evaluation of a variety of articular disorders providing new insights into the lesions underlying mechanical hip pain. Although not necessary in all patients, MR arthrography may facilitate the evaluation of patients with suspected intra-articular pathology in whom conventional MR imaging is not sufficient for an adequate therapy planning. This technique combines arthrographic advantages, like joint distention and delineation of intra-articular structures, with the high quality of MR imaging. Diagnostic confidence can frequently be improved by MR arthrography, particularly in the assessment of subtle lesions and complex anatomic structures. MR arthrography has been proven especially useful in patients with suspected acetabular labral lesions, osteochondral defects or loose bodies.