Radiography: femur

• Digital radiography or conventional radiography using mammography films provide better definition.
• Joints at both ends of bone should always be included (stifle and hip).
• For the investigation of lameness, it is better to radiograph the whole leg, from hip to toes. However, it is advisable to do it using two different films, one for pelvis and femur and the other one for tibia and foot.
• Soft tissues should be included.
• General anesthesia or heavy sedation is commonly required, particularly if a fracture is present. Alternatively, calm rabbits may allow positioning to cover its eyes, dimming the lights and using sandbags and tape.
• The film should be correctly exposed and developed, and free from movement blur and artifact.
• The anatomical marker must be clearly visible, along with the patient's identification, the date, and the name of the hospital or practice.
  Print off the Owner factsheet on Xray and ultrasound to give to your clients.

Uses

• Fracture Limb fracture.
• Other bony conditions (luxations, osteomyelitis, metabolic bone diseases, hip dysplasia) .
• Neoplastic bone disease.
• Soft tissue neoplasia invading bone.

Advantages

• Non-invasive.
• Straight forward.

Time required

Preparation

• Dependent upon the method of chemical restraint (GA or sedation).

Procedure

• 10-15 min, or longer, dependent upon skill of radiographer.

Decision taking

Criteria for choosing test

• Any lameness, abnormal gait, paresis or paralysis of the hind limbs.

Is the examination appropriate?

• Can you make the diagnosis without it?
• Can it tell you what you need to know?
• Will your management be affected by the radiological findings?

Choosing the right projections

• It is mandatory to perform both lateral and craniocaudal projections in order to properly assess problems such as fractures, luxations, fissures, tumors, etc.