Ankle - Oblique (External)

Radiographic Positioning

Adult

Other related pages of interest Applied Radiography Radiographic Anatomy Radiographic Protocols

Name of projection	Ankle - Lateral Oblique (External Rotation)
Area Covered	Distal 1/3 of the tibia and fiblua, proximal metatarsals, ankle joint, lateral and medial malleoli
Pathology shown	Fractures, joint effusion, dislocation, foreign body
Radiographic Anatomy	Ankle Radiographic Anatomy
IR Size & Orientation	24 x 30cm Landscape, divided in two usually fits two ankle projections, use lead masking for unused area
Film / Screen Combination	Detail (CR and DR as recommended by manufacturer)
Bucky / Grid	No
Filter	No
Exposure	60 kVp 3.2 mAs
FFD / SID	100cm
Central Ray	Midway between the malleoli, in line with the medial malleolus Perpendicular to the IR
Collimation	Centre: Midway between the malleoli at the level of the tibiotalar joint Shutter A: Open to include the distal 1/3 of the fibula and the proximal metatarsals Shutter B: Open to include the lateral skin margins
Markers	Distal and Lateral Marker orientation AP
Shielding	Gonadal (check your department's policy guidelines)
Respiration	Not applicable
Positioning	Patient's leg fully extended Lower leg in AP position, toes pointing up Externally rotate entire leg and foot until the long axis of the foot is 45° to the IR
Critique PACEMAN	Positioning The correct positioning is evidenced by Distal fibula should be superimposed along its lateral edge with the tibia The borders of the ankle joint should be demonstrated in profile and well penetrated. Area Covered Distal 1/3 of the tibia and fiblua, ankle joint, lateral and medial malleoli, tarsal bones Collimation Centre: Midway between the malleoli, in line with the medial malleolus Shutter A: Open to include the distal 1/3 of the fibula and the proximal metatarsals Shutter B: Open to include the lateral skin margins Exposure Bony trabecular patterns and cortical outlines are sharply defined Soft tissues are visualised
Special Notes