Pistol grip deformity (hip)

Last revised by Ayush Goel on 5 Mar 2019

The pistol grip deformity is considered a typical radiographic sign of cam-type femoroacetabular impingement. The shape of the proximal femur is reminiscent of a flintlock pistol known from old pirate movies.

History and etymology

It was first described by American orthopedic surgeon S David Stulberg and co-workers in 1975 1,2.

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Cases and figures

  • Figure 1: pistol grip deformity of the hip
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  • Case 1
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  • Case 2: bilateral
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