XR - WRIST AP & LATERAL VIEW

Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View) Overview

Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View) is a radiology exam designed to check the wrist joint and its surrounding bones. It is a quick and safe imaging test that captures the internal structures of the wrist using ionizing radiation.  

What Is a Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View)? 

Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View) is a combination of Antero-Posterior and Lateral X-rays, which are used to visualise the joint and the associated structures of bone tissue. It requires the patient to place the wrist on a flat surface then take two x rays from different angles (Antero-Posterior and Lateral Views). This test is mostly used to observe the wrist for any abnormalities, fractures, arthritis, or other bony changes. 

Types of Wrist X-rays 

Wrist X-rays can be subdivided in the following two categories:  

• AP (Antero-Posterior) view brings to light the front and back of the wrist.  
• Lateral view: focuses on the side of the wrist. 

List of Parameters Considered During the Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View)

During the examination, the medical staff observes: 

• Bone alignment and structure 
• Joint space and cartilage condition 
• Presence of fractures or bone fragments 
• Evidence of osteoporosis or bone density loss 

Reasons for Taking a Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View)

This test is commonly prescribed for: 

• Fractures or suspected fractures 
• Sprains or strains 
• Arthritis or degenerative joint disease  
• Gout or pseudogout  
• Osteoporosis or bone density loss  
• Bone infections or tumours 

When and Who Should Consider a Wrist X-Ray (AP & Lateral View)? 

This exam is suggested for patients with the following symptoms:  

• Painful sensation on the wrist 
• Painful or difficult movement of wrist joint 
• Bruises or swelling in and around the wrist joint 
• Stiffness or pain in the wrist joint that interferes with activities of daily living 
• Possible wrist bone breakage or abnormality 
• Sprains or Strains of the wrist joint 
• Wrist pain from conditions like osteoporosis, gout, and rheumatoid arthritis. 

Benefits of the Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View) Test

Benefits of a Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View) include:  

• Quick and non-invasive test  
• Helps diagnose and monitor various wrist conditions  
• Offers insight to create a suitable treatment plan  
• Can be used to monitor treatment progress 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View)

Common conditions diagnosed using this test include:  

• Fractures (e.g., Colles’ fracture)  
• Osteoporosis  
• Arthritis (e.g., osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis)  
• Gout or pseudogout  
• Bone infections or tumours 

Preparing for the Wrist X-Ray (AP & Lateral View)

Before the test, the patients should:  

• Take off any jewellery or metal items that may obstruct the x-ray images  
• Put-on loose-fitting clothes  
• Tell the technician any details about your implants or medical devices (e.g., pacemakers) 
• Ensure you can stay still and listen to instructions regarding how you should be positioned. 

Pre-requisites 

There are no specific preparations needed; however, patients might potentially need to:  

• Refrain from eating and drinking for a few hours if they have certain medical conditions.  
• Missed doses of some prescriptions which might change the outcome of the test. 

Best Time to do the Wrist X-ray (AP & Lateral View) 

Although it can be done at any time, it is advised to book it for when the symptoms are most severe.  

Eligibility 

This test is generally recommended for any patients with pain in the wrist region or suspected injuries to the wrist region. 

Procedure for Conducting a Wrist X-ray (AP and Lateral Views) 

This procedure lasts roughly 15 to 30 minutes and consists in: 

1. Placing the wrist on a flat surface 
2. Taking an AP and Lateral view X-ray 
3. Remaining still and following the instructions provided by the technician 

Cautions Prior to the Test 

Patients must notify the technician regarding the following: 

• Current state of pregnancy or possibility of being pregnant 
• Known medical implants or devices 
• Recent fractures or surgical procedures 
• Allergic reactions or known sensitivities to X-ray dye