MRI is sensitive to changes in the structure of the cartilage from aging or injury making it useful in diagnosing disorders of the hip joint. It can also demonstrate the presence of edema, tendon tears or bursitis in the soft tissue surrounding the joint itself.
MRI is also a reliable technique to visualise undisplaced fractures not seen on plain x-ray and to detect early-stage necrosis capitis femoris (osteonecrosis of the femoral head).
Pain in the thigh without previous injury can sometimes be referred pain from undiagnosed hip joint issues and be indicative for an MRI Pelvis / Hip or MRI L-Spine (lumbar spine).
Read more about MRI Spine
Indications for a Hip MRI are often related to previous injuries and age:
- Sport injuries (Fractures, dislocations, meniscus tears, ligament and tendon tears/ruptures)
- Degenerative changes
- Inflammation or infection
- Torn or strained ligaments
- Sprain
- Joint pains (acute or chronic)
- Lesions of the bone or soft tissue
Contrast (dye)
Some symptoms and illnesses can be hard to detect even on a MRI scan and require injection of dye (contrast) before or during the scan.
It is particularly helpful in the following conditions:
- Tumours
- Inflammation
- Blood vessels
- Distinguishing between scar tissue and normal organ tissue
The injection is considered very safe for most and you will complete a safety questionnaire detailing your medical history before. The contrast agent (dye) is Gadolinium based and most of it is removed by your kidneys within the next day.
Read more about Gadolinium contrast dye