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o Knee: AP, lateral, sunrise (patella) view
o Ankle & Foot: AP, lateral, oblique views
• Spine X-rays:
o Cervical: AP, lateral, odontoid (open-mouth) view
o Thoracic & Lumbar: AP, lateral views

Understanding and Interpreting Common Orthopaedic X-

rays

Orthopaedic technologists must be proficient in recognizing key radiographic findings related to
fractures, dislocations, arthritis, infections, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Proper
interpretation of X-rays is essential for assisting physicians in diagnosing injuries, assessing
treatment efficacy, and monitoring patient recovery.

Orthopaedic technologists must be familiar with common X-ray findings related to fractures,
dislocations, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.

1. Recognizing Fractures on X-rays

Fractures are among the most common findings in orthopaedic imaging. Proper identification
and classification help guide appropriate treatment and immobilization techniques.

a. Common Types of Fractures

• Simple (Closed) Fractures – Bone remains within the skin.
• Open (Compound) Fractures – Bone fragments pierce through the skin, increasing infection
risk.
• Transverse Fracture – A horizontal break across the bone.
• Oblique Fracture – A diagonal fracture across the bone.
• Spiral Fracture – A twisting injury that creates a corkscrew-like break.
• Comminuted Fracture – Bone is shattered into multiple fragments.
• Segmental Fracture – Two distinct fracture lines in the same bone.
• Avulsion Fracture – A small fragment of bone is pulled away by a tendon or ligament.
• Impacted Fracture – Bone fragments are forced together, creating a compressed appearance.

b. Key Radiographic Signs of Fractures

• Cortical Disruptions – Visible breaks in the outer bone layer.
• Step-offs or Gaps – Malalignment of the bone ends.
• Increased Bone Density at the Fracture Line – Suggests impaction.
• Soft Tissue Swelling or Joint Effusion – May indicate an occult (hidden) fracture.
• Types of Fractures:
o Transverse, oblique, spiral, comminuted, segmental, avulsion, impacted
o Open vs. closed fractures
• Key Radiographic Signs:
o Cortical Disruptions: A break in the bone’s outer layer indicates a fracture.