Utility of MR Imaging in Developmental Dysplasia of Hip

Developmental dysplasia of the hip is the most common cause of an unstable hip in paediatric population. It can be assessed using various radiological modalities. However due to excellent soft tissue characterization and with no radiation hazards, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) plays an important role in the early detection as well as in the evaluation of various soft tissue obstacles that can cause hindrance in reduction. Preoperative MR imaging also helps in determining the acetabular labral coverage which further guides the orthopaedic surgeon in planning the management. In postoperative cases, apart from the assessment of adequacy of reduction, immediate and delayed post operative complications like ischemic necrosis can be detected earlier than with other imaging modalities thus helping in appropriate and timely management. Here we present a pictorial assay of the MR imaging techniques and the findings with a focus on various important anatomical structures required to be evaluated while performing and reporting MRI of these cases.