X-Ray of Normal Hips: Understanding the Procedure

When it comes to diagnosing and treating hip-related issues, a bilateral or unilateral hip x-ray is often ordered by doctors. This imaging exam helps visualize the hip joints, femoral neck, and surrounding bones to detect any abnormalities or injuries. In this article, we'll delve into the process of taking an X-ray of normal hips and what you can expect during the procedure.

Preparation

Before undergoing a bilateral or unilateral hip x-ray, there are a few things you need to do to prepare. First, inform your doctor if you're pregnant, as fetuses are more susceptible to radiation from X-rays. You'll also need to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dentures that could interfere with the X-ray image.

Metal objects in the body can also affect the X-ray's accuracy, so be sure to inform your doctor if you have a metal or surgically implanted device. Additionally, wear comfortable clothing and avoid tight-fitting garments that may obstruct the X-ray technician's view of the hip area.

The Procedure

During the procedure, you'll sit with your knees apart and feet touching or one knee over the other for the lateral view projection. This view allows doctors to better visualize the hip joints and femoral neck. The X-ray technician will position you accordingly to take this view.

For the anterior-posterior (AP) view, you'll be positioned in a way that shows the hip joint in the anteroposterior plane. Your doctor's instructions will guide the X-ray technician on how to position you for this projection.

What Can You Expect?

A bilateral or unilateral hip x-ray typically consists of four views: lateral, AP, and two oblique views. The procedure doesn't require any special preparation, but it's essential to be cooperative with the X-ray technician to ensure accurate images.

The X-ray technician will ask you to don a hospital gown before the procedure to facilitate easy access to the hip area. You'll need to remove any clothing that may obstruct the view of the hip joint.

What is Being Diagnosed?

Doctors commonly order bilateral or unilateral hip x-rays in cases of suspected fractures and dislocations, as well as after surgery to check for proper alignment of the bones. This procedure can also help detect tumors, bone cysts, hip joint infections, and other hip-related bone diseases.

In some cases, doctors may prescribe elderly patients undergoing hip replacement surgery to have a bilateral or unilateral hip x-ray done before their operation to plan for their surgery. This helps identify any potential issues that could affect the outcome of the procedure.

In conclusion, an X-ray of normal hips is a non-invasive imaging exam that helps diagnose and treat various hip-related issues. By understanding what's involved in the procedure, you can feel more comfortable and prepared when undergoing this examination. Remember to follow your doctor's instructions and cooperate with the X-ray technician to ensure accurate images and a successful diagnosis.

Xray of normal hips