The diagnostic value of traction during radiography in diseases of the hip. A preliminary report.
A diastasis between the femoral head and the acetabulum can be achieved for a short while by the application of manual traction on the lower extremity. The intra-articular low-pressure area can be visualised radiographically and is known as a "vacuum phenomenon". The resulting arthrogram clearly outlines the shape, thickness and extent of the cartilage. In the presence of an effusion the diastasis occurs without a vacuum phenomenon. This simple, non-invasive and inoffensive method of traction radiography will not only show abnormalities of the cartilage but also demonstrate the presence or absence of an effusion of the hip.
D000077:Acetabulum / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D002358:Cartilage, Articular / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D005270:Femur Head / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006621:Hip Joint / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007592:Joint Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008297:Male; D008722:Methods; D011859:Radiography; D014143:Traction / Q000379:methods