Ankle joint x-ray is a radiation technique used to assess the condition of the bone structures forming the ankle joint. In traumatology, it is used for suspected fractures of the ankles, talus and calcaneus, fractures of the ankle joint, osteomyelitis. In other areas of medicine, it is prescribed for congenital and acquired deformities, arthritis, neoplasms, degenerative-dystrophic processes. Usually produced in two projections, does not require special training. In the absence of emergency indications in children and women during gestation, if possible, it is replaced by other methods (for example, CT).
Indications
Ankle joint x-ray in traumatology is indicated for suspected one-, two- or three-ankle fracture, fractures of the heel and talus bone, fractures of the ankle joint, osteomyelitis. In orthopedics, the study is prescribed for acquired and congenital deformities, degenerative-dystrophic diseases (arthrosis) of various etiologies. In rheumatology, the technique is used for arthritis and gout, in oncology – for suspected bone tissue damage by a primary or metastatic tumor.
Methodology of conducting
Injuries of the ankle joint have a clinical picture similar to injuries of the proximal row of the bones of the tarsus, talus-heel and talus-navicular joint, therefore, radiographs are performed in such a way that all the listed anatomical formations are clearly visible on the images. To diagnose fractures of the talus bone in traumatology, standard X-rays of the ankle joint are used. If a fracture of the calcaneus is suspected, a standard lateral radiograph is performed in combination with a direct image of the calcaneus.
The study is carried out in two projections (straight and lateral). For a direct snapshot, the patient is laid on his back. Legs are straightened. The foot of the diseased leg is perpendicular to the table and slightly turned inward. Bending the foot to the plantar side can lead to the imposition of the shadow of the heel bump on the ankle area. To prevent the foot from leaning towards the sole, a special pillow is placed on the plantar side. For lateral radiography, the patient is placed on the patient’s side. The affected leg is slightly bent at the knee and hip joints. A healthy limb is strongly bent at the hip and knee joints, removed anteriorly.
