MRI Scanning Technique of Hip Joint

Initially localizer in three plane are taken.

T2 Axial sequence is planned now. Prescribe plane parallel line bisecting lesser trochanters and/or acetabular roofs in coronal localizer. Angle parallel to femoral heads / acetabuli. Scan from iliac crests ( at least 2 slices above acetabuli) through lesser trochanter.

T1 Axial sequence is scanned by copying the slice lines of T2 Axial sequence.

T2 STIR Coronal sequence is planned now. Prescribe plane parallel femoral heads in T2 Axial image. Scan from back of ischial tuberosity through pubic symphysis (at least 2 slices anterior to acetabuli).. Use Axial localizer and angle parallel through femoral heads.

T2 Sagittal sequence is planned in T2 Axial image. Prescribe plane perpendicular to coronal plane. Scan from acetabulum through greater trochanter. Use Coronal image and cover from outer cortex of greater trochanter to the inner portion of acetabulum.

T2 Axial Oblique is more often imaged for femoroacetabular impingement patients and for adductor muscle. Prescribe plane parallel to femoral neck. Scan through entire femoral neck. Use coronal image (with longest medial/inferior femoral neck cortex) and angle parallel through femoral neck. Cover from 1 slice out of acetabulum superiorly through 1 slice out of acetabulum inferiorly. Center at femoral head/neck junction. For adductor muscle, prescribe plane to line paralleling anterior iliac crest. Be sure to scan across pubic symphysis at midline.

The routine MRI sequence for Hip Joint are:

T2 Axial

T1 Axial

T2 STIR Coronal

T2 Sagittal or most preferably T2 Axial Oblique

Please post your valuable comments!