We have reviewed 11 patients with idiopathic transient osteoporosis of the hip; the six who were women all developed the condition during pregnancy. Both simultaneous and sequential bilateral involvement were seen, but biochemical studies were consistently normal and one synovial biopsy showed only non-specific inflammation. Radioisotope bone scans and CT scans were useful to aid diagnosis. Treatment by limiting weight-bearing relieved symptoms, and spontaneous resolution was paralleled by radiographic remineralisation, usually within a few months. One patient developed a stress fracture of the hip and other areas of transient osteoporosis. A hip involved by the condition should be protected from overloading until bone density has recovered.

Magnetic resonance images (MRI) were obtained of 10 healthy volunteers and 70 patients suffering from various orthopaedic disorders. Selected images of soft tissue, joint, bone and spinal abnormalities are presented and their interpretation is described. Although we have been using MRI for only a very short time, it is already possible to see its advantages: it provides good images of soft-tissues, detailed pictures of bone marrow, and excellent visualisation of the spine and spinal cord. The decision-making process in surgical procedures will in the future be influenced by this technique.