XR - HAND AP & LATERAL VIEWS

X-ray of the Hand (AP and Lateral Views) Overview

An X-ray of the hand is a diagnostic imaging procedure that employs X-ray beams to visualize the internal part of the hand, such as bones, muscles, joints, and other tissues. It is commonly performed to diagnose and track numerous conditions involving the hand, including but not limited to, fractures, arthritis, and even foreign bodies. 

What is an X-ray of the Hand (AP and Lateral Views)? 

X-ray of the hand is a non-invasive imaging procedure where X-ray technology is used to obtain photographs of the inside of the hand in two different positions; anteroposterior (AP) and lateral. The AP view of the hand is taken by placing its palm side towards the X-ray plate while its lateral view is captured sideways. This examination is usually done with a standard X-ray device that captures the hand in two dimensions. 

Types of the X-ray of Hand (AP and Lateral Views) 

These are the following X-ray views that may be captured of the hand:  

• AP view: displays an image of the hand from the frontal view 
• Lateral view: displays an image of the hand from the lateral view 
• Oblique view: displays an image of the hand from a tilted perspective 
• Specialized views: attempt to zoom in on aspects of the hand like the fingers or wrist. 

List of Parameters Considered During the X-ray of the Hand (AP and Lateral Views)

In the case of an x-ray of the hand, here are the items that medical personnel must check off:  

• Alignment and density of the bones  
• Joint space and alignment  
• Soft tissues swelling or calcification  
• Fractures or dislocations  
• Bones foreign to the body 

Reasons Why X-Rays of the Hand is done (AP and Lateral Views)

X-ray of the hand is usually indicated to assess and follow the progression of an illness such as:  

• Bone or joint deformities  
• Various forms of arthritis, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis  
• Externally identifiable osteoporosis  
• Tissue damage internally identifiable through external means such as sprains and strains 
• Tumours or cysts in the bones  
• Infectious disease like osteomyelitis 

When and Who Should Take X-ray of Hand (AP and Lateral Views) 

An X-ray of the hand is performed, when necessary, in the following cases:  

• Following an injury to the hand that could have been caused by a fall or a direct impact 
• Any pain, throbbing, swelling, stiffness, or limited range of motion or mobility in the hand 
• The progression of other disorders like arthritis or osteoporosis 
• The presence of a splinter or any foreign metal object that needs to be extracted from the hand 
• People having a history of hand fractures or any other disorder affecting the hand 

Benefits of this test

The X-ray of the hand brings forward the following advantage:  

• Clear images revealing the internal structures of the hand  
• Stage of different diseases and conditions  
• Identify foreign bodies and other structural abnormalities  
• Quick and easy  
• Costs are much cheaper than the alternatives 

Illnesses Diagnosed with X-ray of the Hand (AP and Lateral Views)

An x-ray of the hand is commonly performed to diagnose the following conditions:  

• Fractures such as a boxer's fracture or other forms like metacarpal fractures 
• Arthritis (Ex: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis) 
• Osteoporosis  
• Soft body foreign objects (Ex: splinters, metal objects)  
• Soft tissue injuries (Ex: strains or sprains)  
• Bone tumours or cysts  
• Infections (Ex: osteomyelitis) 

Preparing for X-ray of the Hand (AP and Lateral Views)

For best results with procedures involving X-ray machines, patients should try to: 

• Take off any garments and accessories such as jewellery that could impede the X-ray photographs 
• Notify the technician of any underlying conditions like pregnancy or any recent injuries 
• Abide by any additional rules given by the physician or the radiological unit. 

Pre-requisites 

There are no pre-requisites for an x-ray of the hand, however patients should: 

• Inform the technician about underlying conditions like pregnancy or any recent injuries. 
• Be ready to hold a specific position for some time during the x-ray in order to get clear images. 

Best Time to Take the Test 

In terms of scheduling the test, the patient can submit to the test at any time, but it is usually advisable to set an appointment when the patient is having symptoms or has injured their hand. 

Eligibility 

All patients may undergo the X-ray of the hand, however special care or alternative diagnostic imaging tests may be necessary for pregnant women and children. 

Process of Getting an X-ray of the Hand (AP and Lateral Views) 

This test lasts about 15-30 minutes and consists of the following steps: 

• Preparation: The patient is made to sit comfortably and is required to change out of any clothing or jewellery that may obstruct the view of the hand. 
• The hand is set in the desired position which is usually palm down on the light box: Positioning. 
• The X-ray machine is set above the patient’s hand: X-ray exposure. 
• The hand is moved to a different position to capture more angles of the hand: Repositioning. 
• The test is done, and the patient is free to go. 

Caution Before the Test Begins 

The patients must tell the technician about any known conditions like being pregnant or any recent surgeries or follows any instructions that have been given by the physician or radiology specialist.