Knee Ap & Lateral Views X-Ray Scan

What This Scan Shows

• Bone fractures or cracks
• Joint-space narrowing from arthritis
• Patella (kneecap) position and tracking
• Loose bone fragments or spurs (osteophytes)
• Overall limb alignment

Why Choose Cadabams Diagnostics

• 10-minute digital X-ray with instant image review
• Same-day reports sent to your phone or email
• Comfortable, wheelchair-friendly facility
• Online booking with flexible morning and evening slots
• NABL-accredited lab ensuring accurate results every time

Definition and Purpose

An X-ray scan that captures front-to-back (AP) and side (lateral) pictures of the knee joint. It is the first-line imaging test to check bone health and joint space after injury or in chronic pain.

Difference Between AP and Lateral Views

• AP View: Taken facing the X-ray tube, shows overall alignment and joint space from front to back.
• Lateral View: Taken from the side, highlights patella height and any fluid in the joint. Together, the two angles give a 360° look at knee structures.

• Weight-bearing AP view: Reveals joint-space narrowing under load.
• Non-weight-bearing lateral view: Shows patella position at rest.
• Optional skyline/sunrise view: Looks at the patellofemoral joint if kneecap pain persists.

• Bone alignment
• Joint space width
• Fracture lines
• Osteophytes (bone spurs)
• Patella position and tilt

• Acute injury assessment: Rule out fractures after trauma.
• Chronic knee pain evaluation: Grade arthritis changes.
• Pre-surgical planning: Measure bone angles before joint replacement.

Common Symptoms Indicating Need

• Sudden swelling or inability to bear weight
• Clicking or locking of the knee
• Persistent night pain or stiffness
• Visible deformity after a fall

Age Groups and Risk Factors

• Teens: Sports injuries, growth-plate issues
• Adults 30-50: Ligament tears, early arthritis
• Seniors 60+: Osteoarthritis, fractures from minor falls
• Athletes: Overuse injuries, stress fractures

• Quick 10-minute procedure
• High-resolution digital images—no film waiting
• Same-day reporting by radiologists
• Minimal discomfort, no needles or dyes

• Fractures: Tibial plateau, patella, fibula head
• Osteoarthritis grading: Joint-space loss, sclerosis
• Rheumatoid arthritis changes: Erosions, uniform narrowing
• Patellar maltracking: Tilt or high-riding patella

• Wear loose cotton clothing or shorts.
• Remove metal objects—coins, keys, jewellery.
• Inform staff if pregnant; alternative imaging may be arranged.

• Doctor’s referral (preferred, walk-ins accepted)
• Previous imaging reports for comparison

• Morning slots for fasting patients having other tests the same day.
• Post-injury within 24–48 hours to catch subtle fractures.

• Pediatric to geriatric patients welcome.
• Contraindications: Pregnancy (first trimester) unless medically necessary.

1. Registration & consent: Fill a short form and sign consent.
2. Positioning for AP view: Stand or lie on table, knee straight.
3. Positioning for lateral view: Turn sideways, knee slightly bent.
4. Image review & completion: Radiographer checks clarity, you’re done!

• Inform the technician if you are or may be pregnant.
• Remove knee braces or splints if safe to do so.

Radiation Exposure Details

• Very low dose—equivalent to 2 days of natural background radiation.
• Shielding provided to reproductive organs when appropriate.

When X-Ray May Not Be Sufficient

• Soft-tissue injuries (ligaments, meniscus) need MRI.
• Early cartilage damage may not show up; further imaging advised.