XRAY HAND OBLIQUE

X-Ray Hand Oblique Overview

X-ray hand oblique is a method of imaging the hand radiographically at an angle. X-ray hand oblique gives a better assessment of the internal structures of the hand. That makes it easier for doctors to diagnose and treat different conditions. You may have to take off jewellery or outer garments that cover the area around the hand for the test. The pieces of clothing may disturb the path of the X-ray beam during the test. 

What is an X-ray Hand Oblique? 

An X-ray hand oblique is when the X-ray beam is directed perpendicular to the X-ray film cassette to produce an angled projection image of the hand. The body contains different types of tissues. The body is made up of muscles, fat, and bones. X-ray procedures are a form of electromagnetic radiations, and when they pass through the body, they get absorbed by the bones. Due to the difference in the density of the body’s tissues, they form a contrast. The contrasting enables clear images of the inner structures of the hand. 

Types of X-Ray Hand Obliques 

Oblique X-ray views of the hand encompass the following:  

• Posteroanterior (PA) oblique: view taken from backside of the hand to the front.  
• Anteroposterior (AP) oblique: view taken from front side of the hand to the back.  
• Lateral oblique: view taken from the side of the hand. 

List of Parameters Observed Within X-ray Hand Oblique:

While the test is performed the below listed parameters should be taken under consideration:  

• Bone density and alignment 
• Soft tissues swelling and their densities 
• Joint spaces and alignment  
• Debris or foreign objects presence. 

Reasons for X-ray Hand Oblique Examination:

An x-ray hand oblique may be required for the diagnosis or follow up of any of the following problems:  

• Fractures or dislocated bones 
• Arthritis or any of the related complications 
• Tumours or cysts 
• Abscesses or Infections 
• Foreign bodies or debris within the hand. 

When and Who Needs an X-Ray Hand Oblique? 

You may require an X-ray hand oblique if you: 

• Suffer a hand injury or trauma 
• Have chronic pain in the hand or wrist  
• Have suspected fracture(s) dislocation(s)  
• Present with soft tissue lump/mass of the hand  
• Suffer from arthritis, gout or other similar conditions  
• Younger individuals who are presumed victims of hand or wrist trauma 

Benefits Obtained from the Procedure:

Advantages of performing an X-ray hand oblique include:  

• The test is simple, fast and does not need any invasive methods to ensure patient comfort.  
• Gives a precise understanding on the pathologies of the hand and its proper treatment.  
• Serves as a follow up test to assess if the treatment response is adequate. 

Illnesses Diagnosed Diseases Using X-ray Hand Oblique:

Some of the most common pathologies diagnosed with an x-ray hand oblique are:  

• Fractures or dislocated of the bone. 
• Osteoarthritis or its other associated joint problems. 
• Osteoporosis. 
• Bone's osteitis or abscesses. 
• Tumours or cystic swellings. 

Preparing for an X-ray Hand Oblique:

To prepare for the test you need to:  

• Take off jewellery and other clothes that might obstruct the x-ray beam.  
• Tell the doctor or technologist about your allergies or any medical conditions. 
• Adhere to directions from a medical professional or other trained personnel. 

Pre-requisites:  

There are no standard prerequisites for the X-ray hand oblique, however, you may be required to:  

• Refrain from eating for some time prior to the procedure 
• Stop taking some medications prior to the procedure 

Best Time to Take the X-Ray Hand Oblique: The procedure can be done at any time; however, it is often best scheduled for when the hand is most painful.  

Eligibility: An X-ray hand oblique can be conducted on anyone, although some pregnant females or people with types of medical prosthesis may need to take caution or have substitute tests. 

Procedure for Taking an X-Ray Hand Oblique 

The steps to completing the exam include these actions:  

1. Getting rid of any clothing or jewellery that could block the x-ray beam.  
2. Putting the palm on the x-ray table.  
3. Capturing each x-ray picture one by one.  
4. Examining the pictures with your physician or technician. 

Cautions to Make Before Undertaking the Exam 

Tell your doctor or specialist about any of the following:  

• Allergies or other medical illnesses. 
• Current pregnancy or possible pregnancy.  
• Medical implants or other devices.