MRI-semiotics of the gluteal muscles in patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease

Objective To explore the gluteal muscles in patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Material and methods MRI was used to examine gluteal muscles in 20 patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease. There were 8 female and 12 male patients aged from 6 to 18 years. Results The extent of MRI changes detected in femoral abductors of patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease was dependent on the grade and onset of the disease and patient age. There were differences found in thickness, length and area of the m. gluteus maximus, m. gluteus medius and m. gluteus minimus in unilateral involvement. Maximum changes were revealed in children aged 14-17 years with grades 3 and 4 of the disease. There was a greater decrease in length of m. gluteus minimus as compared to that of m. gluteus medius. Conclusion The findings revealed anatomical (area, thickness, length) and radiomorphological changes in the gluteal muscles of patients with avascular necrosis of the femoral head and Legg-Calve-Perthes disease that were dependent on the grade and onset of the disease and patient age, and indicated to close relationship between anatomy and function of the joint and muscles.