Hip MRI

Pain in the hip area, limitation of movements, or discomfort while walking may indicate disorders in the functioning of the hip joint. In such cases, it is important to obtain accurate information about the condition of the joint and adjacent tissues in order to determine the cause of the symptoms and choose the correct treatment tactics. It is for this purpose that magnetic resonance imaging of the hip joint is used — a modern diagnostic method that allows a detailed assessment of the bone structures, cartilage, ligaments, and surrounding tissues.

At the medical center “Oxford Medical,” the examination is performed using a modern expert-class GE SIGNA Champion tomograph with AI Recon DL artificial intelligence technologies. This ensures high image clarity and makes it possible to detect even minor changes at early stages. Book an MRI of the hip joints in Kyiv at the private clinic “Oxford Medical” at a convenient time for you by phone or request a callback on the website.

MRI of the hip joint makes it possible to obtain detailed layered images of the joint and surrounding tissues, which makes it possible to assess their condition and detect pathological changes.

Thanks to the images, the doctor can assess:

• the condition of the articular cartilage and the degree of its wear;
• changes in bone structures, in particular signs of injuries or overload;
• damage to ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues;
• the presence of fluid in the joint;
• signs of an inflammatory process;
• neoplasms and other pathological changes.

The examination also makes it possible to assess the adjacent soft tissues of the thigh, in particular the back surface of the thigh — muscles, tendons, and fascia. MRI of the back surface of the thigh shows the condition of these structures and makes it possible to detect inflammatory processes, damage, or other pathological changes in this area.

The examination makes it possible to detect both common diseases of the joint and more complex conditions that require detailed visualization. In particular, MRI can help diagnose degenerative changes, inflammatory processes, as well as disorders of the bone tissue structure characteristic of such a condition as osteoporosis.

MRI of the hip joint is a safe diagnostic method; however, in some cases, conducting the examination may be limited or impossible. This is related to the use of a strong magnetic field, which may interact with metallic and electronic devices in the body.

The examination is not performed in the following cases:

• a pacemaker or an implanted defibrillator is installed;
• cochlear implants;
• metal implants or foreign metal fragments incompatible with the magnetic field;
• metal structures located near vital organs.

In some situations, the possibility of performing MRI is determined individually. This concerns early stages of pregnancy, a pronounced fear of enclosed space, or conditions in which it is difficult to remain motionless during the examination.

If a study with contrast enhancement is planned, the condition of the kidneys and the presence of allergic reactions to contrast agents in the past are additionally taken into account. If necessary, the doctor offers an examination without contrast or recommends an alternative diagnostic method.

Special preparation for MRI of the hip joint is usually not required. The examination can be undergone in the usual mode if it is performed without the use of a contrast agent.

Before the procedure, it is worth:

• choosing comfortable clothing without metal elements;
• removing jewelry, watches, and other accessories with metal details;
• informing the doctor about the presence of implants, prostheses, or previous surgeries;
• warning about installed medical devices.

If MRI with contrast enhancement is planned, the doctor may provide additional recommendations:

• not eating for 4–6 hours before the examination;
• if necessary, taking a blood test for creatinine to assess kidney function;
• informing about possible allergic reactions to medications.

Following these recommendations allows the study to be carried out safely and to obtain the most accurate results.

Before the beginning of the examination, the patient is positioned on a special table of the tomograph. The examination area is fixed with the help of soft rollers to ensure immobility during scanning.

After preparation, the table moves inside the tomograph, and scanning begins. The tomograph performs a series of layered images that allow a detailed assessment of the structures of the hip joint and surrounding tissues.

The procedure is painless. During the operation of the machine, characteristic sounds may be heard — this is a normal part of the process. It is important to remain still throughout the entire examination, since movements may affect the quality of the images.

If MRI with contrast enhancement is performed, standard scanning is first carried out, after which a contrast agent is administered intravenously and the examination is continued. This makes it possible to determine more accurately the nature of the changes and their extent.

The duration of the procedure usually is 15–30 minutes. When contrast is used, the examination may last up to 30–40 minutes. After the completion of the study, the obtained images are analyzed by a radiologist, who prepares a written report for further consultation with the doctor.

The cost of the examination depends on whether MRI is performed using a contrast agent. Even if the symptoms occur only on one side, the study is performed for both hip joints — and not separately, for example, MRI of the right thigh or the left one. This approach makes it possible to compare their condition and assess more accurately the changes that may be non-obvious when the examination is limited to only one area.

You can ознакомиться with the prices for medical services here in advance. Book an examination at a convenient time for you by phone or request a callback on the website.