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Transient synovitis of the hip: Ultrasound appearance. Mini-pictorial essay

S Pauroso1, A Di Martino, C C Tarantino

  • 1IRCCS Foundation, Policlinico San Matteo, Institute of Radiology, University of Pavia, Italy.

Journal of Ultrasound
|February 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Transient synovitis in children presents with hip pain and limited mobility. Ultrasound (US) reveals hip joint effusion, with optimal imaging achieved through specific patient positioning and an anterior approach.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Radiology
  • Musculoskeletal Imaging

Background:

  • Transient synovitis is a common cause of acute hip pain in children aged 3-8 years.
  • Clinical presentation includes hip pain, limp, and limited joint mobility, often with the leg held in flexion and external rotation to minimize pain.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To describe the characteristic ultrasound (US) appearance of transient synovitis of the hip.
  • To emphasize the importance of proper US examination technique for accurate diagnosis.

Main Methods:

  • Review of ultrasound findings in pediatric patients with transient synovitis.
  • Detailed description of the recommended patient positioning (supine, neutral hip) and transducer approach (anterior, parasagittal plane along the femoral neck).

Main Results:

  • Ultrasound typically demonstrates joint effusion in the anterior recess of the hip joint.
  • The described technique ensures optimal visualization of the hip joint structures.

Conclusions:

  • Ultrasound is a valuable tool for diagnosing transient synovitis in children.
  • Correct US technique, including patient positioning and approach, is crucial for obtaining diagnostic-quality images and confirming hip joint effusion.

Keywords:
HipHip painTransient synovitisUltrasonography

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