Multiple-echo data image combination in infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip: comparison with conventional T1-weighted and T2-weighted imaging.

Two-dimensional multiple-echo data image combination (MEDIC) images, as well as conventional T1-weighted and T2-weighted images, were obtained for 38 infants with developmental dysplasia of the hip. We retrospectively reviewed these images to evaluate subjective image quality and femoral head-to-ischium contrast. MEDIC images were considered to be of high quality compared with the conventional T1-weighted (P<0.0001) and T2-weighted images (P<0.05), as well as have a higher contrast than conventional T1-weighted and T2-weighted images (P<0.001, respectively). In conclusion, MEDIC images provide diagnostic improvement in studies on developmental dysplasia of the hip.