Hip joint fluid: detection and distribution at MR imaging and US with cadaveric correlation

To define the magnetic resonance (MR) imaging appearance of a hip effusion.

Fifty-two asymptomatic hips in 26 volunteers aged 20-37 years and five fractured hips were imaged at 1.5 T with T2-weighting in three planes. Images were computer digitized and analyzed for hip fluid volume and visually assessed for the presence and width of fluid pockets (in millimeters) seen in the acetabular notch; recesses anterior, posterior, and lateral to the femoral head; and recesses anterior, posterior, and medial to the femoral neck. Cadaveric hips were also injected with graduated amounts of saline (1-20 mL), and sequential MR and ultrasound images were obtained.

Computer analysis yielded an average fluid volume of 2.7 mL (range, 0.7-5.6 mL) in asymptomatic and 6.1 mL (range, 1.7-11.6 mL) in symptomatic hips. The mean difference between the right and left hips was 0.8 mL (range, 0.0-2.9 mL). Discrete fluid pockets, sometimes measuring greater than 5 mm in width, were commonly seen in asymptomatic hips. Distention of the capsule by at least 5 mm along the length of the femoral neck was almost always seen after injection of 5 mL of saline and was consistently seen after injection of 10 mL of saline into cadaveric hips.

Fluid adjacent to the entire length of the femoral neck, measuring at least 5 mm in width, is compatible with a joint effusion.