Contrary to its counterpart in the glenohumeral joint, the anatomy, biomechanics and patterns of injury involving the femoroacetabular capsulo-labral complex may be less familiar to radiologists. The labrum and articular capsule of the femoroacetabular (hip) joint work in conjunction to stabilize the articulation. At lesser degrees of distraction, the labrum is the most important hip stabilizer, whereas in greater distraction states, the contribution of the capsule to hip stability increases. The objectives of this educational exhibit are as follows: • Review normal anatomy and biomechanics of the femoroacetabular or hip labrum and capsular ligaments • Discuss patterns of failure and injury involving the capsulo-labral complex of the hip • Define MR imaging pearls and pitfalls in diagnosing these capsulo-labral injuries

NORMAL MRI • Hip labrum and anatomic variants• Capsular ligaments of the hip • Ligamentum teresIMAGING CONSIDERATIONS• Radial sequences• MR arthrographyABNORMAL MRI• Labral tears• Posterior hip dislocation • Isolated injuries of the capsular ligaments