AANA Hip Arthroscopy - September 2024-Diagnostic Work-Up for Hip Injuries

Diagnostic Work-Up for Hip Injuries - History, Exam, Imaging, Injections

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Dr. Thomas Bird introduces a comprehensive overview of complex hip problems, emphasizing the diagnostic challenges due to multifactorial factors like femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), compensatory muscular issues, and related pelvic and lumbar conditions. He highlights that hip disorders often stem from childhood development and present with variable symptoms, making clinical examination and proper imaging crucial. Key diagnostic tools include thorough history, physical exam, minimal plain x-rays, CT scans for surgical planning, and MRI (preferably pre-contrast) for detecting intraarticular pathology, though MRI may underestimate joint damage. Ultrasound-guided hip injections improve patient experience and offer diagnostic and therapeutic benefits. Bird stresses the need for multidisciplinary collaboration, especially between surgeons and physical therapists, to manage compensation patterns and tailor treatment effectively. Understanding the intricate interplay of hip morphology, biomechanics, and compensatory mechanisms is essential for optimal patient outcomes in hip preservation and surgery.

Keywords

complex hip problems

femoroacetabular impingement

diagnostic imaging

multidisciplinary collaboration

hip biomechanics