[Imaging in joint-preserving hip surgery]

Instability and impingement of the hip are the main pathomechanisms that can lead to chondrolabral damage, painful restriction of motion and early hip osteoarthritis due to increased mechanical stress, even in young patients. The goals of joint-preserving hip surgery are correction of the osseous deformities and chondrolabral damage as well as restoration of joint function. A prerequisite for successful surgery is the identification of the underlying hip pathologies, which can also occur in combination. Dedicated radiographic and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of osseous morphology and the internal degenerative joint lesions play an essential role for the treatment indications and surgical treatment planning. This article provides a concise overview of the prevalence, pathomechanisms and indicated treatment of hip deformities as well as detailed recommendations on the specific radiological clarification.