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The iliotibial tract: imaging, anatomy, injuries, and other pathology

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Abstract

The iliotibial tract, also known as Maissiat’s band or the iliotibial band, and its associated muscles function to extend, abduct, and laterally rotate the hip, as well as aid in the stabilization of the knee. A select group of associated injuries and pathologies of the iliotibial tract are seen as sequela of repetitive stress and direct trauma. This article intends to educate the radiologist, orthopedist, and other clinicians about iliotibial tract anatomy and function and the clinical presentation, pathophysiology, and imaging findings of associated pathologies. Specifically, this article will review proximal iliotibial band syndrome, Morel-Lavallée lesions, external snapping hip syndrome, iliotibial band syndrome and bursitis, traumatic tears, iliotibial insertional tendinosis and peritendonitis, avulsion fractures at Gerdy’s tubercle, and Segond fractures. The clinical management of these pathologies will also be discussed in brief.

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  1. Department of Radiology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite L1600, Los Angeles, CA, 90033, USA

    Russell Flato, Giovanni J. Passanante, Dakshesh B. Patel, Eric A. White & George R. Matcuk Jr.

  2. Department of Radiology, Palmer College of Chiropractic-West Campus, San Jose, CA, 95134, USA

    Matthew R. Skalski

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  1. Russell Flato
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Flato, R., Passanante, G.J., Skalski, M.R. et al. The iliotibial tract: imaging, anatomy, injuries, and other pathology. Skeletal Radiol 46, 605–622 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-017-2604-y

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00256-017-2604-y

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