What is X-RAY ANKLE LAT?

The ankle lateral view is part of a three-view ankle series; this projection is used to assess the distal tibia and fibula, talus, navicular, cuboid, the base of the 5th metatarsal, and calcaneus.

Indications

This projection aids in evaluating fractures, dislocations, and joint effusions surrounding the ankle joint, and helps to assess the severity of a calcaneal fracture by measuring the Böhler angle and Gissane angle.

Patient position

• patient is in a lateral recumbent position on the table
• the lateral aspect of the knee and ankle joint should be in contact with the table resulting in the tibia lying parallel to the table
• the leg can be bent or straight
• foot in dorsiflexion
• place the opposite leg behind the injured limb to avoid over-rotation

Technical factors

• Mediolateral projection
• Centering point
  • the bony prominence of the medial malleolus of the distal tibia
• Collimation
  • anteriorly from the hindfoot to extent of the skin margins of the most posterior portion of the calcaneus
  • superior to examine the distal third of the tibia and fibula
  • inferior to the skin margins of the plantar aspect of the foot
• Orientation
  • portrait
• Detector Size
  • 18 cm x 24 cm
• Exposure
  • 50-60 kVp
  • 3-5 mAs
• SID
  • 100cm
• Grid
  • no