Imaging of Abductor Tears: Stepwise Technique for Accurate Diagnosis

This article presents the authors' technique for evaluation of possible abductor tears with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). By using T2 fat-saturated coronal and axial slices of the hip and T1 coronal images of the pelvis, the authors show how to visualize all tears of the abductor tendons and signs of chronic abductor deficiency. After diagnosis has been made, signs that may help the surgeon determine if open or arthroscopic surgery would be best used are reviewed. Finally, the author reviews indications for a gluteus medius repair with concomitant gluteus maximus reconstruction.