Synovial chondromatosis of the hip. Evaluation with air computed arthrotomography.

Four patients with primary synovial chondromatosis of the hip were evaluated with air or double contrast computed arthrotomography. Air computed arthrotomography was an easy and accurate method of diagnosing the disease and delineating its anatomic extent. The use of air as a sole contrast agent allowed noncalcified chondromatous nodules to be identified. It prevented faintly calcified nodules from being obscured by positive contrast, and was a better means of assessing the narrow portions of the hip joint. Accurate diagnosis of this disease and its extent was demonstrated using air computed arthrotomography. This method provided the most complete preoperative data for the orthopaedic surgeon.