Objective To analyze the imaging findings of gluteus muscle contracture (GMC), and to compare imaging findings with operative findings. Methods 18 cases with clinically and surgically confirmed GMC were performed with X-ray (pelvic Ap X-ray plain film) and MRI scanning (axial-T1WI, T2WI, T2WI Fatsat and Cor-T2WI),in which 2 patients underwent CT scanning. Results Pelvic obliquity could be observed in all the 18 patients; longitudinal dense liniar shadows could be seen in 15 patients; oval shaped well-defined high density shadows could be seen in 3 patients by X-ray. Gluteus muscles atrophy were shown in 2 patients by CT scanning. MR images showed bilateral thinning gluteus muscle in 15 patients and lateral thinning gluteus muscle, intermuscular space broadening and increased fat signal in 3 patients. Gluteus medius fibrous bands could be observed in 15 patients (27 laterals). 18 patients (33 laterals) with fibrous band of gluteus maximus muscle were observed in Cor-T2WI. All 18 cases were affirmed by operation and matched with imaging findings. Diagnostic rate of gluteus maximus, gluteus medius and gluteus minimus was 100%, 93.8% and 94.7%, but the false negative rate of gluteus minimus was 21.7%. Conclusion Longitudinal dense liniar shadows were important suggestion in X-ray and CT for the diagnosis of GMC. MR could show the gluteus muscles atrophy and the thickening fibrous bands, which have guiding significance in GMC operation.