PATHOLOGY DOMNESTRATED :
The lateral in either extension or flexion is an alternative to the fan lateral for localization of foreign bodies of the hand and fingers; it also demonstrates anterior or posterior displaced fractures of the metacarpals. The lateral in a natural flexed position may be less painful for the patient
IR Size :
24 /30
IR Position:
Lengthwise / tabletop
Sheilding :
Shield radiosensitive tissues outside region of interest
Patient Position :
Seat patient at end of table with elbow flexed about 90° and hand and forearm resting on table
Part Position :
Rotate hand and wrist, with thumb side up, into true lateral position, with second to fifth MCP joints centered to IR and CR.
• Lateral in extension: Extend fingers and thumb, and support
against a radiolucent support block. Ensure that all fingers and metacarpals are superimposed directly for true lateral position.
• Lateral in flexion: Flex fingers into a natural flexed position, with
thumb lightly touching the first finger; maintain true lateral position
CR :
second to fifth MCP joints
Collimation :
Collimate to outer margins of hand and wrist
Criteria :
Anatomy Demonstrated:
• Entire hand and wrist and about 2.5 cm (1 inch) of distal forearm are visible.
• Thumb should appear in slightly oblique position and free of superimposition with joint spaces open.
Position:
• Long axis of the hand and the wrist is aligned with long axis of the IR.
• Hand and wrist should be in true lateral position, as evidenced by the following: distal radius and ulna are superimposed; metacarpals and phalanges are superimposed.