Effective ultrasonography protocol for investigating muscular structures of the canine dorsolateral hip region with comparative magnetic resonance imaging.

OBJECTIVE

To develop an ultrasonography protocol for identifying muscles of the dorsolateral hip region that contribute to joint stability, with verification by MRI and gross dissection.

METHODS

Muscles of the dorsolateral hip region were investigated using 3-Tesla MRI followed by high-frequency B-mode ultrasonography in 5 skeletally mature canine cadavers (n = 10) from September 1, 2024, through August 30, 2025. The origins, insertions, and anatomical relationships of the musculature were documented. The accuracy of structure identification was confirmed using ultrasonography-guided injections of dye placement followed by gross dissection.

RESULTS

Ultrasonography and MRI images of the middle gluteal, deep gluteal, superficial gluteal, piriformis, biceps femoris, internal obturator, gemelli, and quadratus femoris were acquired. The appearance of the sacrotuberous ligament and sciatic nerve was also documented as relevant landmarks for muscle identification. The approach for ultrasonographic identification of each structure was documented. Ultrasonography-guided dye placement into all 8 muscles was performed separately by 2 diplomates (American College of Veterinary Radiology and American College of Veterinary Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation). Upon dissection, dye injections accurately identified all 8 structures consistently between diplomates.

CONCLUSIONS

This study documents an effective ultrasonography protocol for investigating the structures of the dorsolateral hip region, consistent with comparative MRI and gross dissection.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: This study advances knowledge of normal ultrasonographic anatomy of the dorsolateral hip region, allowing for improved identification, monitoring, and treatment of soft tissue injury.