The Lisbon Agreement on Femoroacetabular Impingement Imaging: A Step Towards Better Patient Outcomes
Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) is a condition that affects the hip joint, commonly occurring in young and active individuals. It is characterized by abnormal contact between the femoral head and the acetabulum, leading to pain and limitations in hip function. Treatment options for FAI include conservative management, such as physical therapy, and surgical intervention, such as hip arthroscopy. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning are crucial in achieving optimal patient outcomes.
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the use of imaging modalities to aid in the diagnosis of FAI. However, the lack of standardization in imaging protocols and reporting has led to variability in the interpretation of imaging findings, potentially resulting in suboptimal patient care. To address this issue, a group of international experts in hip preservation recently convened in Lisbon, Portugal, to establish a consensus regarding imaging protocols and reporting in FAI.
The Lisbon Agreement on Femoroacetabular Impingement Imaging provides guidelines on the following:
1. Imaging modalities: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and plain radiographs are the recommended imaging modalities for the diagnosis and evaluation of FAI.
2. Imaging protocols: The agreement provides detailed instructions on imaging parameters and positioning specific to each modality. For example, the MRI protocol includes sequences that allow for optimal visualization of the femoral head-neck junction and acetabulum.
3. Reporting: The agreement recommends a standardized reporting system that includes detailed descriptions of imaging findings, such as the location, severity, and morphology of any bony abnormalities. Additionally, the report should include a description of any labral and chondral abnormalities.
The standardization of imaging protocols and reporting will improve the accuracy and consistency of FAI diagnosis and treatment planning. This will benefit both patients and clinicians, as it will ensure that the appropriate treatment is initiated in a timely manner, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing the need for additional imaging or treatment.
In conclusion, the Lisbon Agreement on Femoroacetabular Impingement Imaging represents a significant step towards improving patient outcomes in the diagnosis and management of FAI. By providing standardized guidelines on imaging protocols and reporting, clinicians can confidently and accurately diagnose and treat FAI, leading to better patient outcomes and a reduction in healthcare costs.