Tag Archives: hip

Pelvis AP
4
Feb

Overview

The AP pelvis radiograph evaluates the pelvic ring hips and proximal femora for fractures and degenerative disease. The patient lies supine or stands with legs internally rotated to profile the femoral necks. This view is a cornerstone for trauma and orthopedic assessment.

Technique

Center the detector to the mid pelvis and ensure equal leg rotation to reduce foreshortening. Use appropriate exposure to penetrate the pelvis and include the iliac crests to proximal femora. Immobilize the patient when trauma is suspected.

Clinical Indications

AP pelvis is indicated for trauma hip pain and preoperative planning. It assesses pelvic ring stability and hip joint space. Additional inlet outlet and Judet views may be required for complex pelvic fractures.

Image Assessment

Evaluate pelvic symmetry sacroiliac joints and hip joint spaces. Inspect for cortical disruption and displacement of the pelvic ring. Document fracture patterns and recommend CT for detailed surgical planning.

Hip AP
4
Feb

Overview

The AP hip radiograph focuses on the proximal femur and acetabulum to assess fractures and degenerative change. The patient lies supine with the leg internally rotated to profile the femoral neck. This view is essential for hip pain and preoperative planning.

Technique

Center the detector to the hip joint and internally rotate the leg approximately 15 degrees. Include the acetabulum and proximal femur in the field and use appropriate exposure. Immobilize the limb to reduce motion artifact.

Clinical Indications

AP hip is indicated for trauma suspected fracture and osteoarthritis assessment. It helps detect femoral neck fractures and joint space narrowing. Additional lateral or cross table views may be required for occult injuries.

Image Assessment

Assess cortical continuity femoral head sphericity and joint space. Look for subcapital fractures and osteophyte formation. Report findings relevant to orthopedic management and surgical planning.

Hip Frog Leg Lateral
4
Feb

Overview

The frog leg lateral hip view positions the hip in flexion abduction and external rotation to profile the femoral head and neck. It is useful for detecting slipped capital femoral epiphysis and femoral neck fractures. This projection complements the AP hip for comprehensive assessment.

Technique

Flex the hip and knee and abduct the thigh with the sole of the foot against the opposite leg. Center the detector to the hip and use appropriate exposure for the proximal femur. Ensure patient comfort and avoid excessive rotation.

Clinical Indications

Frog leg lateral is indicated for pediatric hip disorders trauma and suspected femoral neck pathology. It provides a lateral perspective of the femoral head neck and greater trochanter. Alternative lateral techniques are used when positioning is limited.

Image Assessment

Evaluate the relationship of the femoral head to the neck and look for epiphyseal displacement. Assess cortical integrity and joint congruity. Document findings and recommend orthopedic referral when indicated.

Hip Cross Table Lateral
4
Feb

Overview

The cross table lateral hip view images the proximal femur and hip joint when the patient cannot abduct the leg. The detector is placed lateral to the hip and the beam directed horizontally. This projection is useful for trauma patients and postoperative assessment.

Technique

Keep the patient supine and place the detector parallel to the femoral neck on the unaffected side. Use a horizontal beam and ensure the contralateral limb is moved out of the field. Use appropriate exposure and immobilize the patient.

Clinical Indications

Cross table lateral is indicated for suspected femoral neck fractures in patients who cannot be positioned for frog leg views. It provides lateral visualization without moving the injured limb. CT may be used for occult fractures.

Image Assessment

Evaluate femoral head neck alignment cortical integrity and displacement. Assess for intra articular extension and joint congruity. Report findings relevant to urgent orthopedic management.

DEXA Bone Densitometry
4
Feb

Overview

DEXA measures bone mineral density at the spine and hip to assess osteoporosis risk and monitor therapy.

Technique

Dual energy acquisition separates bone from soft tissue. Standardized positioning and calibration ensure reproducible results.

Clinical Uses

Diagnosis of osteoporosis fracture risk assessment and monitoring response to bone directed therapy.

Limitations and Safety

Limited to bone density assessment. Artifacts from hardware or degenerative change can affect accuracy.