MR arthrography of the hip

What is hip MR arthrography?

Hip MR arthrography is a specialized MRI examination used for a very precise assessment of the joint structures of the hip, especially the acetabular labrum, articular cartilage, and capsule.

The examination includes intra-articular administration of contrast agent into the hip joint under imaging guidance, followed by MRI scanning.

MR arthrography enables a significantly better visualization of fine intra-articular lesions compared to a conventional hip MRI.

When is hip MR arthrography recommended?

Hip MR arthrography is most commonly used in cases of:

• suspected lesion or rupture of the acetabular labrum
• femoroacetabular impingement (FAI – CAM / PINCER)
• unclear hip pain with a normal or borderline finding on standard MRI
• athletes with chronic hip or groin pain
• assessment of the joint capsule and cartilage

What does hip MR arthrography look like?

The examination is performed in two steps:

• Administration of contrast into the hip joint
  The contrast agent is administered directly into the hip joint under ultrasound guidance, in sterile conditions. The procedure is short and well tolerated.
• Hip MRI scanning
  After the contrast is administered, MRI scanning follows and lasts 20–30 minutes, during which it is necessary to lie still.

Is hip MR arthrography painful?
The procedure itself may be accompanied by mild discomfort, but as a rule it is not painful. Most patients tolerate the examination without difficulty.

How to prepare for hip MR arthrography?

• special preparation is generally not required
• you may eat and drink as usual
• before the examination, it is necessary to remove metal objects
• it is important to inform the staff about:
  • allergies
  • previous hip surgeries
  • implants or metallic foreign bodies

When is hip MR arthrography not necessary?
If a standard hip MRI already clearly shows the cause of the symptoms (e.g. pronounced degenerative changes or fractures), MR arthrography is not indicated. The need for the examination is determined by the orthopedist according to the clinical picture and previous findings.

Do I need a referral for hip MR arthrography?
The examination can be performed without a referral.

How long does hip MR arthrography take?
The total duration of the examination is about 45–60 minutes, including contrast administration and MRI scanning.

When do I receive the report?
The report is generally available the same day or by agreement.