X Ray Pelvis Lateral View

A true lateral pelvis radiograph is not routinely performed because pelvic bones overlap and limit diagnostic value. Standard imaging is an AP pelvis, with targeted lateral views of the hips (frog‑leg or cross‑table) and specialized oblique, inlet/outlet or Judet projections for acetabular assessment. For complex or traumatic injuries, CT is preferred for detailed pelvic evaluation.

The three standard hip X‑ray views are: 1) anteroposterior (AP) pelvis/hip — shows both hips and pelvic alignment; 2) frog‑leg lateral (Lauenstein) — a true lateral of the femoral head and neck used in non‑trauma cases; and 3) cross‑table lateral (axial/Danelius‑Miller) — a horizontal‑beam lateral for patients who cannot rotate the leg (trauma). These three evaluate fractures, arthritis, and alignment.

A 2-view pelvis X‑ray consists of two radiographs taken from different angles—commonly an anteroposterior (AP, front-to-back) view and a lateral or inlet/outlet view. Together they visualize the pelvic bones, hip joints and nearby structures to detect fractures, dislocations, degenerative changes or foreign bodies. It's a routine first-line test for pelvic trauma, hip pain or suspected arthritis.

An AP pelvis X‑ray is performed with the patient supine, legs internally rotated about 15–20° (heels together) to align femoral necks parallel to the image receptor. The pelvis is centered with ASISs equidistant from the table. The central ray is perpendicular to mid‑pelvis, aimed at the midpoint between the anterior superior iliac spines and the pubic symphysis. Use shielding as indicated.

A lateral view on an X-ray is an image taken from the side of the body, with the X-ray beam directed laterally so structures are shown in profile. It complements frontal (AP/PA) views by revealing depth, overlap, alignment, joint spaces, spinal curvature, pleural fluid layers, and subtle fractures or displacements. Patients may stand, sit, or lie on their side for this projection.

The lateral pelvis refers to the side portions of the pelvic ring—mainly the ilium and its outer areas (iliac crest, greater trochanter region). It links the trunk to the lower limb, provides attachment for gluteal and hip-stabilizing muscles, and transmits forces through the sacroiliac joint. Lateral pelvic pain commonly stems from muscle strain, trochanteric bursitis, or sacroiliac dysfunction.