How the Test is Performed

Bone and Joint X-Rays are performed by a radiographer in a specialised X-Ray room. The affected body part is placed on a radiographic plate and the X-Ray taken. Views are taken as AP (anteroposterior) with the limb flat on the plate, and lateral (on the side).

Medical Conditions and Symptoms

Bone and Joint X-Rays are usually performed following trauma to the limbs, with chronic pain or evidence of localised infection.

Test Results Explained

Bone and Joint X-Rays are accurate for detecting moderate to large bone breaks (fractures), but may miss small ‘hairline’ fractures. They can be useful in defining degenerative disease of the bone and advanced infection. They are not as accurate as CT or MRI in determining soft tissue injuries or subtle abnormalities. The results are interpreted by a radiologist.

Related Specialists

• Radiologist
• Emergency Physician
• Orthopaedic surgeon
• General Practitioner (GP)

Related Procedures

Related Tests

• Bone and Joint CT
• Cervical Spine X-Ray (C-Spine X-Ray)
• Pelvic X-Ray
• Calcium (Ca)
• Phosphate
• ESR
• Full Blood Count
• Rheumatoid Factor

Also Known As

• Limb X-Ray
• Plain X-Ray
• Plain Radiology
• Plain Films

Links

• RadiologyInfo – Bone X-Ray
• RadiologyInfo – Joint X-Ray (Arthrography)

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. If in doubt, HealthEngine recommends consulting with a registered health practitioner.