X-Ray Upper Limbs (AP / LAT View) Test

X-Ray of upper limbs includes your fingers, hand, wrist, elbow, forearm, upper arm, and shoulder. X-Ray of upper limbs is a test that involves radiation technology to produce a detailed and precise image of the upper limbs of a human body. This is usually prescribed by a doctor if the patient has met an accident and is subjected to a fracture, dislocation, and any other unexplained swelling or pain. The test may also be prescribed after the treatment to check whether the fracture has been properly aligned or not and whether it is stabilized for healing or not. During this test, a black and white image is captured on a special film and the captured image looks like a negative of a photograph.

You are not required to do anything in particular for this test. But if you are pregnant then this test might not be prescribed to you because of the probable risks of radiation that may affect the baby in your womb. If you have an insulin pump, then disclose this to the professional. You just need to remove your wristwatch, bracelet or any other item made of metal that you are wearing on your body.

As already discussed, this test is used to give a precise picture of your upper limbs. The following results might be concluded from this test. If the X-Ray image shows no abnormal bone structure, then your results might be positive. If any cavity or abnormality is found in your upper limbs area then you might be subjected to fracture or any other bone problem. You can get the precise interpretation from your physician.

The test will be conducted by a trained person and it will hardly take few minutes of your time. You might be required to wear a lead shield from below the waist line which will protect your pelvic and reproductive organs from exposure to the radiation. Your body will be positioned against the X-Ray film in a way that it captures the clearest image.

Depending on the portion to be examined, the professional may ask you to sit, lie down or stand against the X-Ray table. It will also depend on whether your doctor wants an AP view or an LAT view of your upper limbs. You need to hold your breath for few seconds, till the time the rays pass through your body. Doing so will prevent the X-Ray image from being blurred. After the images have been taken, the films are sealed with your name and send to the laboratory. You can expect to get the results within 3-5 days.