2-D and 3-D computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging in developmental dysplasia of the hip.

Clinical examination and plain roentgenograms have been the main methods of diagnosis and treatment of developmental dysplasia of the hip. Occasionally, concentric reduction cannot be achieved, or the reduction is questionable. A dynamic arthrogram can add more information but is usually performed under general anesthesia. "Mini" computed tomographic imaging demonstrates the femoral head-acetabulum relationship more accurately and produces minimal radiation. Three-dimensional computed tomography is useful in older children, in whom all sections are ossified. Magnetic resonance imaging, particularly 3-D magnetic resonance imaging, demonstrates the nonossified structures. It is the best method of visualization in developmental dysplasia of the hip. The disadvantages of this method include its cost and the lack of dynamic imaging. In the future, new software will overcome these shortcomings.