XR - FEMUR AP & LAT

XR - FEMUR AP & LAT Overview

An XR femur AP and LAT is a type of X-ray known as femur X-ray, which captures images of the femur or thigh bone from two opposing views: anteroposterior (AP) and lateral (LAT). This X-ray is routinely performed to check the femur for fractures, bone deformities, or other abnormal conditions.  

What is an XR - FEMUR AP & LAT? 

The XR femur AP and LAT employs X-ray technology to create femur images. An X-ray is a type of electromagnetic radiation that can pass through the body and make images of the internal structures. Only the LAT view captures the femur from the side, while the AP view captures the femur from the front to back. 

Types of XR - FEMUR AP & LAT 

• Standard XR - FEMUR AP & LAT: This type of femur X-ray captures images from both the AP and LAT views which make it the most common type of femur X-ray.  
• Paediatric XR - FEMUR AP & LAT: This type of X-ray is specific to children and dosages, as well as techniques for minimizing radiation exposure, are adjusted accordingly. 
• Digital XR - FEMUR AP & LAT: The digital capture and storage of images in this type of x-ray makes sharing and comparing images with other medics easy. 

List of Parameters Considered During the XR-Femur AP & LAT Examination

• Positioning of the patient to ensure diagnostic quality images. 
• Obtained X-ray beam's angle and exposure. 
• Patient's medical history including any surgical procedures and implants. 
• Visible abnormal deformities or abnormalities. 

Reasons for Taking XR-Femur AP & LAT

• Carefully assess the femur for fractures or other bone associated trauma. 
• Monitor for healing secondary to surgical intervention(s) or other treatments. 
• Diagnose and monitor different bone pathologies such as osteoporosis or bone malignancy. 
• Assess for deformities or aberrations in the femur. 

When or Who Needs to Take a XR - FEMUR AP & LAT? 

• Patients experiencing symptoms associated with a femur fracture with severe pain, swelling, or mobilization of the leg.  
• Patients with a previous diagnosis of osteoporosis or any benign bone neoplasms. 
• Patients who underwent trauma or injury to the femur bone in the recent past. 
• Patients that have some degree of visible bone deformity of the femur. 
• Patients currently undergoing orthopaedic surgery of the femur or treatment of femur pathology. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Quick and painless. 
• Capture the images of the femur from either side for comprehensive detail. 
• Useful in identifying and treating multiple maladies concerning the femur. 
• Help in assessing the progress of healing and the effectiveness of treatments. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with XR - FEMUR AP & LAT Scan

• Several types of fractures (stress, compression, open) 
• Osteoporosis 
• Primary or metastatic bone malignancy 
• Osteomyelitis 
• Paget’s disease 

Preparing for the test

• There are no guidelines set for this examination. 
• Patients may be instructed to take off any clothes or accessories that could obstruct the X-ray visuals. 
• Patients might need to recline on an X-ray platform or position themselves in front of an X-ray camera. 

Pre-requisites 

• No fasting or dietary limitations are necessary. 
• Patients must notify their doctor about any medical implants or devices that may obstruct the X-ray images. 

Best Time to Take the XR - FEMUR AP & LAT 

• There is no specific timetable for the test, but it can be performed at any time. It is most effective, however, when the patient is most comfortable and capable of remaining still during the test. 

Eligibility 

• This test is appropriate for almost all patients regardless of age and is often not appropriate for pregnant women or those having certain medical implants or devices. 

Procedure For Taking A XR - FEMUR AP & LAT: 

1. The patient will be positioned supine on an X-ray table or in standing position against an X-ray plate. 
2. The X-ray technician will position the X-ray machine to the patient’s femur. 
3. The patient is instructed to remain still and hold their breath while the X-ray is being taken. 
4. The X-ray technician takes pictures of the femur from the AP and LAT positions. 

5: Completing the test usually takes between 10 to 15 minutes 

Cautions Taken Prior to the Test 

• Patients must notify their doctor about any medical implants or devices that can potentially affect the X-ray pictures.  
• Any clothing and jewellery that can potentially interfere with the X-ray images, must be avoided.