Hip

Abstract

The hip joint is visualized well in most adults with point-of-care ultrasound. Depending on body habitus, a mid-frequency linear or low-frequency curved transducer is required for ultrasound evaluation of this area (Figs. 4.1 and 4.2). Presence of a hip joint effusion can be reliably identified with ultrasound (Fig. 4.3). A hip joint effusion is present in adults when the anterior joint recess (the distance between the neck of the femur and the overlying joint capsule) is measured at greater than 6 mm, or if there is a side-to-side difference of more than 1 mm [1, 2]. Hip joint effusions can be seen in patients with degenerative arthritis, inflammatory arthritis, and septic arthritis. Fluid aspiration is required for a definite diagnosis.