Algorithm for Imaging the Hip in Adolescents and Young Adults

The imager's role in diagnosing prearthritic hip syndromes has increased significantly in the past 10 years. As surgical and nonsurgical treatment algorithms for mechanical syndromes including femoroacetabular impingement and acetabular dysplasia have evolved, clinicians have grown increasingly dependent on radiography, MR imaging, MR arthrography, and even computed tomography to confirm diagnoses and support the need for potential intervention. Musculoskeletal radiologists should help referrers navigate available imaging options and protocols, while using both clinical information and imaging findings to arrive at a diagnosis that adds value to the treatment plan.