XR - LEG AP VIEW

An X-ray Leg AP (Anteroposterior) View captures an image using the X-Ray leg machine by taking a shot from front of the leg towards the back (anterior to posterior). It is used to assess the leg x-rays including the femur (thigh bone), tibia and fibula (leg bones) and surrounding muscles and tendons. Soft tissues along with other bones in the leg are carefully assessed and evaluated for any damage or abnormalities.  

What is X-ray Leg AP View? 

Uses X-ray beams to form pictures of the internal structures of the leg It requires the leg to be positioned in a way that allows the beam to go through it from front to back to capture the bones and soft tissues. The displayed images are plotted on the computer and later reviewed by a radiologist and analysed.  

Types of X-ray Leg AP View  

These types include:  

• Bilateral X-ray Leg AP View – both legs are scanned at the same time.  

• Unilateral X-ray Leg AP View – The X-ray of one leg is performed.  

• Weight-bearing X-ray Leg AP View - The X-ray of the leg in a standing position is done.  

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

During the procedure, the radiologist will look at the:  

• Bone alignment and bone density  

• Joint space and joint articulation 

• Things like muscles and tendons. 

• Any fractures, bone spurs, or any other complications with the bones. 

Reasons for Taking an X-ray Leg AP View

An X-ray Leg AP View is great for observing and monitoring conditions like: 

• Osteoarthritis 

• Bone Breaks 

• Osteomyelitis 

• Osteophytes 

• Dislocated joints 

When and Who Needs to Take an X-ray Leg AP View? 

Common symptoms which may require the procedure are:  

• Pain or swelling in the leg region  

• Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the leg  

• Leg deformity or anomalous alignment  

• Probable fractures or infected bone  

• Osteoarthritis or other joint bone degenerating diseases  

Benefits of Taking the Test

Leg X-rays have their benefits too: 

• Leg examination is fast and simple. 

• Identification of complicated bone and joint issues is easier. 

• Helps in deciding further steps that need to be taken. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with X-ray Leg AP View

This test can be done to identify: 

• Breaks and fractures 

• Osteoarthritis 

• Osteomyelitis 

• Osteophytes 

• Sublimed joints 

Preparing for X-ray Leg AP View

Patients need to do the following: 

• Dress in loose and comfortable clothes. 

• Take off any jewellery or other items that might get in the way of the X-ray beams. 

• Comply with any other instructions given by the radiology staff. 

Pre-requisites 

Patients don’t need to fulfil requirements before the exam, but they might have to: 

• Stay hungry or skip some medications before the exam. 
• Share any details relating to past surgeries or other diseases  

Best Time to take the X-ray Leg AP View  

The procedure may be done any time; however, it is best done when the patient has the symptom or when a doctor orders it.  

Eligibility 

Apart from pregnant women who need to consult their doctor before having an x-ray, the test is widely accepted for all ages.  

Procedure for Taking an X-ray Leg AP View 

In most cases, the steps to be taken include: 

1. Putting the leg on the x-ray table 
2. Positioning the tube to the x-ray leg 
3. Taking the pictures of the leg 
4. Checking the pictures for leg’s quality and correctness 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients must: 

• Advise the technician of any metallic surgical implants, pacemaker and artificial joint prosthesis  

• Have any pain or discomforts during procedure be attended to  

• Obey any radiology department set rules and regulation