Tag Archives: calcaneus

Ankle Lateral
4
Feb

Overview

The lateral ankle radiograph profiles the talus calcaneus and distal tibia to assess alignment and fractures. The foot is positioned in true lateral with the medial and lateral malleoli superimposed. This view is essential for trauma and preoperative planning.

Technique

Position the ankle in true lateral and center the detector to include the distal tibia and calcaneus. Use appropriate exposure and immobilize the limb to minimize motion. Include the subtalar joint when indicated.

Clinical Indications

Lateral ankle is indicated for trauma suspected fracture and evaluation of hindfoot alignment. It complements AP mortise and oblique views for comprehensive assessment. CT is used for complex fractures and surgical planning.

Image Assessment

Evaluate talar dome integrity calcaneal alignment and posterior malleolar involvement. Inspect for joint effusion and soft tissue swelling. Report findings relevant to orthopedic management and fixation planning.

Foot Lateral
4
Feb

Overview

The lateral foot radiograph profiles the longitudinal arch calcaneus and tarsal alignment. The foot is positioned in true lateral with the medial and lateral aspects superimposed. This view is important for assessing arch collapse and calcaneal fractures.

Technique

Place the foot in true lateral and center the detector to include the calcaneus and metatarsals. Use appropriate exposure and immobilize the foot to minimize motion. Weightbearing lateral views assess functional alignment.

Clinical Indications

Lateral foot is indicated for trauma suspected calcaneal fracture and arch assessment. It complements AP and oblique views for comprehensive evaluation. Weightbearing studies evaluate functional deformities.

Image Assessment

Evaluate calcaneal morphology talar alignment and plantar arch height. Inspect for posterior facet fractures and subtalar joint involvement. Document findings relevant to surgical planning and orthotic management.

Calcaneus Axial
4
Feb

Overview

The axial calcaneus radiograph images the calcaneal body and subtalar joint to detect fractures and joint involvement. The beam is angled cephalad to project the calcaneus free of superimposition. This view is essential for suspected calcaneal injury after axial load trauma.

Technique

Position the patient supine or prone and angle the tube approximately 40 degrees cephalad to the plantar surface. Center the detector to the calcaneus and include the subtalar joint. Immobilize the foot to reduce motion artifact.

Clinical Indications

Axial calcaneus is indicated for trauma heel pain and suspected intra articular fractures. It complements lateral views for comprehensive assessment. CT is often used for detailed evaluation and surgical planning.

Image Assessment

Evaluate calcaneal height width and posterior facet integrity. Inspect for comminution and subtalar joint involvement. Document fracture pattern and recommend CT for operative planning when indicated.