[Supercilium acetabuli. A stress indicator of the hip joint cartilage]

A thousand radiographs of the hip joints in adults were evaluated quantitatively and the following statistical conclusions were drawn: the normal forms of the supercilium acetabuli are either parallel or convex. Wedge-shaped supercilia indicate increased stress on the cartilage only in cases with hip dysplasia. A supercilium of more than 4mm raises the suspicion of increased stress on the cartilage. Normally, the joint space as shown on a radiograph does not fall short of 3mm. Eight formulas have been defined which can be used after planimetry of the supercilium and the articular surface in order to indicate increased stress on the cartilage and a risk of developing an arthrosis of the hip. These formulae are of practical value if the radiographs appear normal to visual inspection.