XR - LEG AP & LATERAL VIEWS

XR - LEG AP & LATERAL VIEWS Overview

The leg X-ray (AP and lateral views) is a diagnostic imaging study to evaluate the leg's bones and soft tissues. Its common applications include the assessment and treatment of fractures, dislocations, and diseases of the joints.  

Preparation 

No specific preparation is needed prior to this test. Jewellery or clothing that might obstruct the X-ray images will likely need to be removed. In the days leading up to the test, you may need to stop taking certain medications that have barium or iodine in them. 

What is an X-ray of the Leg? 

An X-ray of the leg captures images of the bones and soft tissues via X-ray technology. As a form of electromagnetic radiation, X-rays can pass through the body and be absorbed by denser materials like bone. The images produced aid in the diagnosis and treatment of several different internal disorders of the leg. 

How does it work? 

For the X-ray of the patient’s leg, both the AP and lateral views will be taken. The patient will lay supine on an x-ray table, and the x-ray will be collimated to their leg. Then the x-ray technician will complete one frontal view (AP view) and one side view (lateral view). These will be printed digitally and sent to a specialized doctor (radiologist) who will study the bones and soft tissue in detail. 

Types of X-Rays of the Leg 

There are several types of X-rays of the leg, including: 

• AP view shows the soft tissues and bones of the leg from the front.  
• Lateral view shows alignment of bones and soft tissues taken from the side of the leg. 
• Oblique view shows soft tissues and bones at an angle and from a different perspective. 

List of Parameters Considered During the X-ray of the Leg

The following parameters will be checked by the radiologist during the leg x-ray:  

• Bone fractures, dislocation, and inflammation. 
• Growth of soft tissues around the bone. 
• Joint and bone diseases like osteoarthritis. 
• Bone spurs or soft tissue growth marked the injury or the swelling. 

Reasons for Taking an X-ray of the Leg

Reasons for Taking an X-ray of the Leg 

An x-ray on the leg will be advised in the case of the following conditions or symptoms:  

• There is too much pain or swelling in the leg.  
• Bone dislocation or fracture insect is suspected.  
• Bone softening and aggressive cancer growth.  
• Deficits in bearing weight.  
• Abnormal shape or positioning of the leg. 

When and Who Should Get a Leg X-ray? 

A leg x-ray may be needed for patients who have suffered from the following: 

• Leg injuries 
• Severe pain or swelling in the leg 
• Difficulty in walking or putting weight on the leg 
• Some form of abnormal or bone misalignment 
• Osteoporosis or suspected bone cancer 

Benefits of Taking the X-ray Test

An X-ray of the leg provides a fast and precise diagnosis to a variety of conditions which lead to convenient treatment and management. 

The test causes no harm to the patient and is rather quick, lasting only a few minutes.  

A broad range of ailments can be found when performing an X-ray of the leg. These include:

• Bone fractures and fractures of joints 
• Osteoarthritis 
• Osteoporosis 
• Bone carcinoma 
• Injuries or Edema in the soft tissues 

Preparing for an X-ray of the Leg

For the test, the following are required:  

• Take off any pieces of clothing or jewellery that may hinder the X-ray images. 
• Give your pet a thorough briefing statement about any illnesses or allergies that may be relevant. 
• Stay away from consuming certain drugs for a couple of days prior to the test, especially those that feature barium or iodine. 

Pre-requisites 

There are not any specific pre-requisites for an X-ray of the leg. That said, informing the healthcare provider of existing medical conditions or allergies is a must.  

Best Time to Take the Test 

A leg X-ray can be taken at any time of the day or night. However, if one has severe swelling or pain of the leg, then seeking medical help immediately is advisable. 

Eligibility 

For those struggling with trauma to the leg, severe pain or swelling, difficulty in walking, or even a suspected case of osteoporosis or bone cancer, an X-ray of the leg is highly recommended.  

Procedure for Taking an X-ray of the Leg 

The procedure for an X-ray of the leg is as follows:  

1. You are to lay on the X-ray table with the machine above your leg, and the technician will take care of the rest.  
2. You will first receive two images: one of your legs from the front (Anteroposterior view) and the other from the side (lateral view).  
3. Immediately after the procedure gets completed, the radiologist will check the monitor you were previously looking at, and from that, they will be able to analyse the internal details of your leg.  
4. The procedure normally takes only a few minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

As with any procedure, be sure to let your health care provider know about any medical conditions or allergies you might have. Avoid, for a few days prior to the test, taking any medications like barium or iodine.