What are X-Ray Both Hand AP & Oblique Views?

An X-ray of the hand is a safe and painless test to visualize the bones of the hand and the soft tissues (skin and muscles) surrounding it using a small amount of radiation. The bones of the hand include the carpals (wrist bones), the metacarpals (bones between the wrist and fingers), and phalanges (bones of fingers). The image is recorded on a special X-ray film. The X-ray image is black and white. Dense structures such as the bones, appear white and softer body tissues, such as the skin and muscles appear darker. The actual exposure time to radiation is usually less than a second, although the overall test may take 15-20 minutes.

Why is X-Ray Both Hand AP & Oblique Views done?

To diagnose any broken/fractured bones of the hand and to monitor the healing of the broken bone, after it has been set. To diagnose any infection, osteoporosis, deformities, or abnormal growth of the bones and arthritis (inflammation of the joints).

What are the drawbacks of a bone X-ray?

X-ray images give a very clear view of the bones. However, it does not provide a good visual image of the soft tissues like tendons, muscles, or fat tissue under the skin. Even the bone microfractures or complicated spine injuries are not clearly visible on the X-Ray images. Apart from this, it also exposes the patient to some amount of radiation but the benefit of the information gained from an X-ray image outweighs the risk of radiation.

Who interprets the X-ray results?

The interpretation of an X-Ray image is carried out by a radiologist who analyses or reads the X-ray image and prepares a report of the findings which is shared with the patient.