Imaging of hip disorders

Conventional radiography should be done first, because in most instances, it remains the most accurate diagnostic tool. Bone scintigraphy should be second, for it not only establishes abnormality but also the anatomic location and physiologic state of that abnormality. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, because of its superiority in imaging marrow, soft tissues, and cartilage, has become extremely important in evaluating hip pain. In most instances, however, MR images should be interpreted alongside the conventional radiograph.