MRI-based 3D Hip Labrum and Cartilage Morphology in Patients With Hip Deformities Compared to Asymptomatic Volunteers

MRI-based 3D Hip Labrum and Cartilage Morphology in Patients With Hip Deformities Compared to Asymptomatic Volunteers

In this study, the investigators seek to describe the normal 3D hip joint morphology in asymptomatic volunteers and compare it to various hip joint deformities. Asymptomatic volunteers will be asked to undergo a non-contrast MRI of the hip at 3 Tesla, utilizing a high-resolution morphologic 3D sequence (3D T2 DESS) that enables the segmentation of labrum and cartilage. 3D morphological parameters of the asymptomatic group will subsequently be compared with the 3D morphological parameters of patients with hip deformities, which were collected as part of a previous retrospective study.

Hip deformities can cause hip pain and early onset osteoarthritis in young individuals.

Correcting these deformities typically involves planning with X-rays and MRI images, which offer a limited view of the hip joint's 3D structure. A comprehensive 3D analysis of hip structures, including cartilage, and labrum, would enhance diagnosis and surgery planning. However, 3D hip morphology hasn't been adequately described for distinguishing deformities.

The aim of this study is to describe normal 3D hip joint morphology in healthy participants and compare it to various hip joint deformities (Dysplasia, acetabular protrusion, retroversion, deep hip, and cam deformity).

Asymptomatic volunteers will undergo a non-contrast MRI of the hip at 3 Tesla using high-resolution morphologic 3D sequence (3D T2 DESS), which allows segmentation of labrum and cartilage.

The 3D morphological parameters of the asymptomatic group will then be compared with those of patients with hip deformities, data sourced from a retrospective study that included 100 patients from the outpatient clinic. These patients underwent direct MR arthrography at 3 Tesla in accordance with the institutional routine protocol at the Department of Diagnostic, Interventional, and Pediatric Radiology at Inselspital.

Inclusion criteria:

• Age > 18 years.
• Signed an informed consent form.
• History free of significant hip pain, with no history of juvenile hip disease, traumatic injuries, inflammatory conditions, or tumors affecting the hip.
• Normal clinical examination of the hip.

Exclusion Criteria:

Individuals who are not considered suitable for MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) for the following reasons:

• Potential pregnancy
• Presence of metal fragments in the eye or elsewhere in the body
• Presence of implants and metallic foreign bodies, such as a pacemaker, heart valve, cerebrospinal fluid shunt, insulin pump, nerve stimulator, or cochlear implant
• Claustrophobia