XR - HIP LATERAL VIEWS

Hip Lateral Views X-ray Overview

Hip lateral views x-ray is a test that captures images of the hip joint and the bones that surround it laterally (sideways). This imaging test is used to determine the extent of several conditions which include hip bone fractures and dislocations, and degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis. Patients may be instructed to disrobe, remove jewellery and glasses, and put on a gown in preparation for the test.  

What is a Hip Lateral Views X-ray? 

A hip lateral views x-ray is an x-ray technique that captures an image of the hip joint and the bones that are surrounding it from the side. A lateral view of the hip area is taken by an x-ray machine which emits a stream of ionizing radiation that is absorbed by a detector and forms a digital image that later appears on a monitor. Expert radiologists interpret those images for further diagnosis. 

Types of Hip Lateral Views X-ray 

Two broad categories of hip lateral views X-ray include:  

• Frog-leg lateral view: Where the knee is flexed with the foot of the knee over the opposite knee making the person look like a frog. 
• True lateral view – Here, the patient is placed supinely with the hips parallel to the x-ray tube. 

Parameters Considered During the Hip Lateral Views X-ray

A radiologist will examine the factors listed below for consideration during the x-ray:  

• Alignment and rotation of the hip joint 
• The bone's density and its architectural intricacy 
• Fractures, dislocations, and the presence of degenerative changes 
• Inflammation or swelling of the soft tissues 

Reasons for Taking a Hip Lateral Views X-ray

Some common purposes of the hip lateral views x-ray include:  

• To check for a fracture or dislocation of the hip joint  
• To assess the presence of arthritis 
• To assess the position of the hip joint 
• To determine the severity of the disease or condition impacting the hip joint 

When and Who Should Get a Hip Lateral Views X-ray? 

A hip lateral views X-ray is generally recommended for patients experiencing symptoms like these: 

• Pain or tenderness in the hip 
• Bruises or swelling in the hip area 
• Stiffness or restricted range of motion in the hip 
• A trauma or injury to the hip in the past few months 
• Potential hip fracture or dislocation 

This test is generally recommended for everyone, regardless of age, but is primarily guided towards:  

• Geriatrics with long-standing medical conditions, such as osteoporosis putting them at risk for hip fractures 
• Sports people and active individuals 
• Individuals with prior history of hip injuries or any related conditions. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Some known advantages of the hip lateral views x-ray include:  

• It has a fast turnaround time and is non-invasive 
• It is very effective for diagnosing pathologies of the bones 
• It assists in the management plan of the hip conditions 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Hip Lateral Views X-ray

Some of the common conditions that can be diagnosed with a hip lateral views x-ray are:  

• Fracture of the neck of the femur 
• Dislocation of the hip joint 
• Osteoarthritis 
• Rheumatoid arthritis 
• Cyst or tumour of the bones 

Preparing for the Test

For the best results from the test, patients must:  

• Take off any metallic jewellery or clothing 
• Change into a hospital gown 
• Advise the radiologist about any existing medical conditions or known allergies 

Pre-requisites 

There are no specific pre-requisites for the test, but patients may need to:  

• Avoid eating for a few hours before the test.  
• Not take medicines that could affect the test results. 

Best Time to Take the Test 

The test can be taken at any time, but it is best done when patients have symptoms or have recently injured their hip.  

Eligibility 

The test is recommended for most patients, but pregnant women should notify their doctor prior to the test. 

Procedure for Taking Hip Lateral Views X-ray 

The procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes to complete and includes:  

1. Rolling the patient on the X-ray table.  
2. Positioning the hip joint to the X-ray beam.  
3. X-raying the patient.  
4. Assessing the images taken. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients should notify the radiologist of any medical history, allergies, or concerns that might affect the test. Additionally, patients must take out any metallic objects that might change the outcomes of the test.