CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What error is indicated if an AP image of the hip shows the lesser trochanter in profile?

1. None, the lesser trochanter is meant to be in profile

2. The knee was flexed

3. The foot was excessively internally rotated

4. The foot was externally rotated

The correct answer is: The foot was externally rotated

The presence of the lesser trochanter in profile on an AP image of the hip indicates that the foot was externally rotated during the positioning of the patient. In a correctly positioned AP hip radiograph, the lesser trochanter should not be visible in profile. This is because proper positioning requires the femoral neck to be in alignment with the image receptor, which typically occurs when the foot is rotated internally. If the foot is positioned externally, it allows the lesser trochanter to become visible, indicating improper positioning. Understanding the importance of foot rotation is essential for achieving accurate imaging of the hip joint. Therefore, recognizing the position of the lesser trochanter as a sign of external rotation helps radiographers ensure they are adequately positioning the patient to obtain a diagnostic-quality image.