Hip Lateral Views X-Ray Scan

Purpose of the scan

A HIP LATERAL VIEWS X-RAY SCAN captures side-angle images of the hip joint to reveal bone alignment, joint space, and possible fractures that front (AP) views may miss.

Key benefits at Cadabams Diagnostics

• Digital radiography for crystal-clear images
• Same-day radiologist report
• Comfortable, wheelchair-friendly rooms
• Online report access

Definition and imaging technique

This scan uses low-dose X-rays aimed from the side of the pelvis to show the femoral head, neck, and acetabulum in profile.

Difference from anteroposterior (AP) view

• AP view: Front-to-back image, best for overall joint assessment
• Lateral view: Side profile, ideal for detecting subtle fractures and hip dysplasia

Frog-leg lateral view

Patient lies supine with knees bent and hips flexed outward—ideal for children.

Cross-table lateral view

Patient lies on unaffected side; quick option for trauma cases.

Löwenstein view

Hip flexed 90° with external rotation—checks femoral head sphericity.

False-profile view

Oblique standing position—assesses anterior acetabular coverage.

• Femoral head sphericity
• Acetabular coverage angle
• Joint space width
• Alignment of femoral neck

• Suspected hip fracture
• Developmental dysplasia screening
• Pre-surgical planning for hip replacement or pinning

Benefits of Taking the HIP LATERAL VIEWS X-RAY SCAN

• Non-invasive and quick
• High-resolution digital images
• Same-day reporting at Cadabams

Common symptoms prompting the scan

• Groin or outer-hip pain after a fall
• Difficulty bearing weight
• Limping in children or teens

Age groups and risk factors

• Pediatrics: Developmental hip checks
• Adults 50+: Osteoporosis and fracture screening
• Athletes: Stress-fracture monitoring

• Fractures of femoral neck or head
• Hip dysplasia
• Avascular necrosis
• Osteoarthritis changes

• Clothing: Wear loose, metal-free attire
• Metal objects: Remove belts, keys, jewelry
• Pregnancy: Inform staff if pregnant or possibly pregnant

• Doctor’s referral note
• Previous imaging comparison (if any)

• Morning slots for fasting patients with multiple tests
• Same-day orthopedic consultation availability

• Adults and pediatric patients
• Contraindications relative to pregnancy: 1st-trimester patients may defer unless urgent

1. Positioning: Supine or side-lying, hip rotated 15–45°
2. Technician places detector against outer hip
3. Short burst of X-rays (seconds)
4. Image appears instantly on digital screen Duration: 5 minutes total; comfort cushions provided.

• Inform technician of pregnancy, pacemakers, or implants
• Limitations in obese patients: extra padding may be needed

Radiation exposure facts

• Dose ≈ 0.3 mSv—equal to 10 days of natural background radiation
• Well within safe limits for occasional scans

Limitations in soft-tissue evaluation

• Cannot visualize cartilage, labrum, or ligaments clearly
• MRI or ultrasound may follow if soft-tissue injury is suspected