Ankle and Lower Leg Review

Question 1

When performing the AP projection lower leg, the CR should be directed to the –1–.

Answer 1

mid-shaft of the tibia

Question 2

When an AP projection, Mortise of the ankle is performed, the leg should be rolled approximately –1– degrees.

Answer 2

15-20 degrees

Question 3

When the lateral or external oblique position of the lower leg is performed the tibia and fibula will –1–.

Answer 3

superimpose

Question 4

A line drawn through the medial malleolus to the IR when the ankle is placed laterally should be –1– to the IR.

Answer 4

perpendicularr

Question 5

Which type of joint is the ankle?

Answer 5

hinge

Question 6

The lateral malleolus is located on the –1–.

Answer 6

distal fibula

Question 7

What 3 structures make up the mortise joint?

Answer 7

1. Distal Tibia
2. Talus
3. Distal Fibula

Question 8

The CR should be directed to the –1– for a lateral projection ankle.

Answer 8

medial malleolus

Question 9

Which position/projection (s) of the ankle should be performed to demonstrate the possible presence of ligaments tears.

Answer 9

AP ankle with inversion and AP ankle with eversion

Question 10

How should the foot/ankle be placed to open the tibiotalar articulation?

Answer 10

dorsiflexion

Question 11

The routine medial oblique projection of the ankle requires –1– degrees of rotation.

Answer 11

45 degrees

Question 12

What specific structure should be present on all ankle radiographs in order to demonstrate a Jones Fracture if present?

Answer 12

The tuberosity of the 5th metatarsal

Question 13

If density differences are present on a lower leg radiograph, specifically explain what can be done to correct or alleviate this problem.

Answer 13

You use a wedge filter and put the thick part of the filter over the ankle joint

Question 14

What 2 joints must be present on a lower leg radiograph?

Answer 14

Tibiotalar joint and the knee joint

Question 15

For the mortise view/position ankle, an imaginary line through the malleoli will be –1– to the IR.

Answer 15

parallel

Question 16

Where should the CR be directed for an AP projection ankle?

Answer 16

mid-malleoli

Question 17

In a properly positioned lateral ankle where should the fibula be demonstrated in relation to the tibia?

Answer 17

superimposed and behind the tibia

Question 18

When performing stress view ankles, what is the most important fact to remember about the specific position of the ankle?

Answer 18

The ankle must be dorsiflexed -*do not roll the ankle, it must remain AP

Question 19

Weight bearing studies of the ankles show the possible presence of –1–.

Answer 19

joint space narrowing

Question 20

What is the SID for an ankle exam?

Answer 20

40 SID

Question 21

What is the SID for a lower leg exam?

Answer 21

48 SID

Question 22

Why is the SID important for lower leg exams?

Answer 22

You increase the SID 8 inches to 48 inches so you can include the entire tib/fib and the ankle and knee joints on the radiograph. (mag)

Question 23

What is the proper amount of flexion suggested for a lateral lower leg?

Answer 23

20-30 degrees

Question 24

How many degrees should the leg be rotated when performing oblique images of the tibia/fibula?

Answer 24

45 degrees

Question 25

Label the specific position of the ankle images below.

Answer 25

1. AP ankle with 20 degrees of internal rotation. “Mortise ankle”
2. AP Ankle
3. AP medial oblique- 45 degree ankle

Question 26

What knowledge did you use to determine the positions for the radiographs above?

Answer 26

1. AP ankle with 20 degrees of internal rotation.
   “Mortise ankle”- shows entire joint space of the ankle.
2. AP Ankle- shows slight superimposition of the distal tib/fib.
3. AP medial oblique- 45 degree ankle-shows the distal tib/fib without superimposition.

Question 27

Lower leg and ankle exams are a long scale of contrast.

Answer 27

False

Question 28

It is acceptable positioning to only roll the foot itselft when performing oblique images of the ankle.

Answer 28

False (must roll entire leg)

Question 29

Label the radiograph.

Answer 29

A. Tibia
B. Fibula
C. Tibiotalar joint
D. Talus
E. Navicular
F. Cuboid
G. Calcaneous

Question 30

Name one method name that will demonstrate the intercondyloid fossa of the knee.

Answer 30

Holmblad, Camp Coventry, Berlere (sp?)

Question 31

What is another name for the talus?

Answer 31

Astragulus (sp?)

Question 32

What is the medial ridge of bone on the os calcis that supports the arch?

Answer 32

Susteutaculum Tali (sp?)

Question 33

Name the medical term for “shin splints”. It is the incomplete separation of the tibial tuberosity.

Answer 33

Osgood Schlaughters

Question 34

When performing an upright abdomen radiograph, the minimum degree that a patient be elevated to be considered upright is?

Answer 34

70 degrees.