Titanium hip implants for improved magnetic resonance and computed tomography examinations.

Abstract

The value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for assessment of the hip has been demonstrated, particularly in cases of avascular necrosis. Magnetic resonance imaging can be used to provide anatomic evaluation of the femoral head, acetabulum, hip joint, joint fluid, and the surrounding structures. MR examinations of two patients with hip fractures fixed with stainless steel hip implants were compared with nine patients with hip fractures fixed with titanium hip implants, one of which showed avascular necrosis of the femoral head. The titanium implants resulted in less MRI artifacts, allowing for improved depiction of the femoral head and surrounding soft tissue. For this reason titanium fixation devices are recommended as a substitute for stainless steel in the hip joint region in a patient who may need future MR examination.