XR - HAND LATERAL VIEW

Hand Lateral View X-Ray Overview

A Hand Lateral View X-Ray is a diagnostic imaging test that shows the hand from the side. It is done to check the bones, joints and the soft tissues of the hand, fingers, wrist and forearm. This article will guide you through the fundamentals of Hand Lateral View X-Ray, its medical purpose, associated risks, and the expectation of the procedure.  

What is a Hand Lateral View X-ray? 

A Hand Lateral View X-Ray is a type of radiograph in which x-rays are used to capture and produce images of the hand's internal structures. An x-ray beam is projected to the side of the hand, and the resulting images are in cross-section know as ‘slice’ views which display the bones, joints, and soft tissues of the hand in an arranged manner. This test is useful for so many conditions such as fractures, osteoarthritis, and dislocated joints. 

Types of Hand Lateral View X-rays 

You can categorize Hand Lateral View X-Rays as follows: 

• Standard lateral view: This is the most popular version due to its simple side view orthographic projection of the hand. 

• Oblique lateral view: With an oblique view, the hand and wrist can be seen in greater details as it is off at a 45-degree angle. 

• Rotated lateral view - A hand is rotated to allow for a fuller view of the fingers and wrist. 

List of Parameters Considered During the Hand Lateral View X-ray

A closer look at the following parameters listed below is regarded to during a Hand Lateral View X-ray.  

•Bone density and alignment. 

• Joint space and alignment. 

• Swollen tissues or inflamed areas. 

• Any foreign bodies or masses that are present. 

Reasons for Taking a Hand Lateral View X-ray

Some of the primary reasons for taking such an X-ray are specifically to hand lateral view x ray to view x-ray in such a manner, position, or perspective.  

• To ascertain fractures, dislocation and other possible bone injuries.  

• Assessing osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis and other joint concerns.  

• Conditions like tendinitis or nerve entrapment for soft tissue conditions.  

• Assessing whether the condition is worsening or whether the treatment is effective.  

When and Who Needs to Take a Hand Lateral View X-ray? 

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to recommend a Hand Lateral View X-Ray: 

• Pain or swelling in the hand 

• Reduced movement of the fingers and wrist 

• Tingling or numb sensations in the palm 

• Deformed or misaligned fingers 

• Visible signs of infection or inflammation in the hand 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Some of the benefits of a Hand Lateral View X Ray include:  

• Diagnosis in a non-intrusive manner which is speedy and fast.  

• The images exported can easily be used for effective treatment of injuries to the wrist and hand.  

• Effective for watching over or monitoring the treatment of the conditions as well as the development of the diseases.  

Illnesses Diagnosed with Hand Lateral View X-ray

A Hand Lateral View X-ray enables diagnosis of an entire range of conditions such as:  

• Fractures or dislocations.  

• Osteoarthritis. 

• Rheumatoid arthritis.  

• Tendon inflammation and tenosynovitis.  

• Compression in nerves or Neuropathy.  

Preparing for a Hand Lateral View X-Ray

Prior to getting a Hand Lateral View X-ray you will need to: 

• Take off any jewellery or metal that is on the hand 

• Refrain from any eating or drinking several hours before the test 

• Alert the doctor or X-ray technician to any allergies or sensitivities you may have 

Pre-requisites 

There are no specific pre-requisites for a Hand Lateral View X-ray, but your doctor may advise on: 

• Not eating before the test or taking some medicine 

• Coming in ahead of time to finish forms and preparations 

Best Time to Take the Hand Lateral View X-ray 

A Hand Lateral View X-ray can be taken anytime, but it would be preferable to plan it for normal business hours. 

Eligibility 

In general, anyone can undergo a Hand Lateral View X-ray, though additional care may be required for women who are pregnant or nursing. 

Procedure for Taking a Hand Lateral View X-Ray 

The procedure for a Hand Lateral View X Ray is as follows: 

1. All jewellery or metallic objects are removed from the hand.  
2. You will be in a seated or supine position and your hand prepared for the test.  
3. The x-ray technician will place the x-ray machine and capture a series of pictures of your hand.  
4. You will be instructed to sit still in a certain position for a few seconds for each picture. 

 Caution Before Taking the Test 

When undergoing a Hand Lateral View X-ray, ensure to tell your physician or X-ray technologist about any history of:  

• Allergic reactions or other sensitivity issues.  

• Any form of surgery you have had.  

• Currently expectant or lactating.  

• Other relevant medical details.