Ultrasound and fluoroscopy are unnecessary for injections into the arthritic hip.

Overview

PURPOSE: We investigated the effectiveness of non-image-guided hip injections. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 369 intra-articular hip injections in 331 patients using anatomical landmarks. The percentage and duration of pain relief was documented. Hip injections were grouped in responders and nonresponders (50 % maximum pain relief as a cut off). RESULTS: In 82% (n = 304) of hip injections, patients responded positively and experienced >50 % pain relief. Nonresponders had a significantly higher body mass index (p = 0.007). CONCLUSIONS: Hip injections using anatomical landmarks are an effective treatment option for patients with osteoarthritis of the hip.