Name of the Procedure:

Radiologic Examination, Femur; Minimum 2 Views

Common Name(s): X-ray of the femur, Femur radiograph
Medical Term: Diagnostic radiologic examination of the femur

Summary

A radiologic examination of the femur involves taking X-ray images from at least two different angles to visualize the thigh bone. This helps in identifying any fractures, abnormalities, or diseases affecting the femur.

Purpose

Medical Conditions:

• Fractures or breaks in the femur
• Bone infections or osteomyelitis
• Bone tumors or growths
• Degenerative bone diseases

Goals/Outcomes:

• Accurate diagnosis of the condition affecting the femur
• Planning appropriate treatment or surgical interventions
• Monitoring healing or disease progression

Indications

Symptoms/Conditions:

• Pain in the thigh or leg
• Swelling or bruising in the thigh area
• Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
• Deformity or abnormal mobility of the leg

Patient Criteria:

• Patients with a recent injury to the thigh
• Those experiencing unexplained pain or swelling
• Individuals with a history of bone diseases

Preparation

Pre-Procedure Instructions:

• No special preparation or fasting is required.
• Remove any metallic objects or jewelry that might interfere with the X-ray images.

Diagnostic Tests/Assessments:

• None required specifically for the X-ray itself.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be positioned by a radiologic technologist, who will ensure proper alignment of the femur.
2. X-ray images will be taken from at least two different angles—typically front (anterior-posterior) and side (lateral) views.
3. The patient will need to stay still while the images are taken to ensure clarity.

Tools/Equipment:

• X-ray machine
• Lead aprons or shields to protect other parts of the body from radiation.

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• Not typically required.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 15-30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a radiology department within a hospital or an outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Radiologic Technologist
• Radiologist (to interpret the images)

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Minimal exposure to radiation

Rare Risks:

• Potential for a false negative or missed fracture

Management:

• Repeat imaging if initial images are inconclusive.

Benefits

Expected Benefits:

• Accurate diagnosis of fractures or bone conditions
• Quick and non-invasive procedure
• Immediate results for acute injuries

Realization of Benefits:

• Often immediate, as the images can be reviewed shortly after the procedure.

Recovery

Post-Procedure Care:

• No special care needed after the procedure.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Immediate, as there is no recovery period needed from an X-ray.

Restrictions/Follow-Up:

• Follow-up with a healthcare provider to discuss the results and subsequent steps.

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• MRI or CT scans (more detailed imaging but often used for more complex cases)
• Bone scans (for detecting metabolic activity of bones)

Pros and Cons:

• MRI/CT scans provide more detail but are more expensive and time-consuming.
• Bone scans offer metabolic information but involve more radiation.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Minimal discomfort; the patient is required to stay still for clear images.

After the Procedure:

• No pain or discomfort expected post-procedure.
• Pain management is not necessary.
• The patient can resume normal activities immediately.