XR - LUMBAR SPINE AP & LATERAL VIEWS

XR – Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral is often referred to as a lumbar spine X-ray and is a diagnostic test that images the lumbar spine, including the lower back portion of the spine, using a low energy ionising radiation. 

This x-ray is performed to evaluate the condition of the lumbar spine, the discs, and the soft tissues. 

What is XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral? 

The XR – Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral utilizes two X-ray views, one anteroposterior (AP) and one lateral. In the AP view, the subject is imaged from the front capturing the anterior and posterior portions of the spine. 

The spine can also be viewed from the side using a lateral view. These views are essential for healthcare professionals when evaluating bones and disc space abnormalities. 

Types of XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral 

The two main forms of XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral includes: 

• Standard X-ray: This is the most frequently used type where the lumbar spine is photographed using a stationary X-ray machine. 
• Portable X-ray: This specific model transports infrared mobile radiography for use in accidents or for patients that cannot move out of bed. 

During the test, medical professionals consider the following parameters: 

• The lumbar spine’s alignment and curvature. 
• Height and spaces of intervertebral discs. 
• Shape and height of the vertebral body. 
• Abnormality and shadow of soft tissue. 
• Presence of fractures, foreign objects, or other degenerative changes. 

The XR – Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral test is usually done on patients with the following conditions or signs: 

• Pain felt in the lower back. 
• Trauma to lower back. 
• Signs of degenerative disc disease or herniated discs. 
• Scoliosis or excessive curvature in the spine (kyphosis). 
• Inflammation of the spine. 
• Osteoporosis and spinal fractures. 

When and Who Needs to Take an XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral? 

Any healthcare provider might require an XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral in the following situations: 

• Pain or discomfort in the lower back region. 
• History of lower back trauma or injury. 
• Suspicion of degenerative disk disease or herniated disks. 
• Pathologically altered spine curvature such as scoliosis or kyphosis. 
• Infection/inflammation of the spine or vertebrae. 
• Individuals with a prior history of osteoporosis or spinal fractures. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

The following benefits are provided by the XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral test: 

• Non-invasive and quick assessment of the lumbar spine. 
• Diagnosing new spinal conditions and injuries. 
• Helps in tracking the progression of the condition or the effectiveness of the treatment. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral

The XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral test is used to assess the following conditions. 

• Degenerative disc disease 
• Herniated discs 
• Scoliosis or Kyphosis 
• Osteoporosis or Spinal fractures 
• Spinal infections or Inflammation 

To prepare for the examination, the patients should: 

• Take off any jewelry and clothing with metal fastening. 
• Change into loose and comfortable clothes. 
• Alert the technician when there are any medical implants or other objects within the body. 

Pre-requisites 

No explicit pre-requisites are listed for the XR – Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral examination, but at a minimum, patients should be able to: 

• Go without eating for a few hours before the examination (if contrast medium is necessary) 
• Skip medications or substances that may affect the test. 

Best Time to Take the XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral 

The test can be carried out any time of the day, but patients are encouraged to complete it in the morning to prevent delays. 

Eligibility 

The XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral test is recommended for patients who: 

• Experience pain and discomfort in the lower back region 
• Have suffered spinal injuries or trauma in the past 
• Suspected of having degenerative disc disease and/or herniated disc 
• Have abnormal curvatures of the spine which is scoliosis and kyphosis 
• At risk of Osteoporosis or getting fractures in the spine 

Procedure for Taking an XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral 

As with most examinations, the XR - Lumbar Spine AP & Lateral test procedure usually consists of the following steps: 

1. Preparation: The patient is seated on an X-ray stool or stands facing the X-ray machine. 
2. AP View: An anterior-posterior view of the spine is taken from the front and back side. 
3. Lateral View: The side view of the mouth is captured. 
4. Image Review: The outlined structures are examined by the technician to verify that the bones are outlined correctly and the quality of the images taken is good. 

Precautions 

Patients must notify the technician in case they have: 

• Any implants or other objects inside the body. 
• Any type of allergy against X-ray contrast X-ray. 
• Any injuries or trauma to the lower back region recently. 
• Is pregnant or there is a chance of pregnancy.