Ankle X-ray Report

Ankle X-ray refers to the diagnostic imaging technique that utilizes ionizing radiation to visualize bones and other hard tissues in the ankle area. Mainly, an ankle X-ray is used to observe the lower regions of the Tibia and Fibula, in addition to the talus and calcaneus. These bones form the joints of the ankle and bear most of the weight of the body. Using ankle X-ray, conditions like fractures, tumors, and other injuries.

Organ-Based Types

Distal Tibia–Malleolar Ankle X-Ray

This type of X-ray focuses on the lower end of the tibia, specifically, the inner part of the ankle joint. In this X-ray, radiologists check for a smooth and aligned surface of the tibia, space between joints, or fracture fragments being displaced into the joints. The distal tibia-malleolar X-ray is performed when a medial ankle fracture, swelling/tenderness in the inner ankle, or involvement of the articular surface is suspected.

Talus X-Ray

This type of X-ray focuses on the talus, the central bone of the ankle, which connects the foot to the leg. Common abnormalities observed in the talus X-ray include smoothness of the talar dome, alignment with the tibia, and signs of fracture lines. The talus X-ray is performed to diagnose pain in the deep ankle, a talus fracture, and osteochondral injury.

Calcaneus (Heel) X-Ray

This X-ray visualizes the calcaneus, which is the largest bone in the foot. This type of X-ray is generally performed when the patient suffers from high-impact injuries. It is an efficient tool to diagnose calcaneal fracture, involvement of joint surfaces, and collapse of the bone.

Conditions to Diagnose

Fractures

Medial malleolus fracture

Lateral malleolus fracture

Bimalleolar and trimalleolar fractures

Talar fracture

Calcaneal fracture

Distal tibial (pilon) fracture

Avulsion fracture

Stress fracture

Dislocations

Ankle joint dislocation

Subtalar dislocation

Talus dislocation

Joint subluxation

Arthritis

Osteoarthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis

Post-traumatic arthritis

Gout-related joint changes

Infections

Osteomyelitis

Septic arthritis

Tuberculous arthritis

Growth & Pediatric Conditions

Growth plate (physeal) injury

Salter–Harris fracture

Developmental deformities

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is an ankle X-ray performed?

An ankle X-ray is performed to diagnose conditions like fractures, dislocations, arthritis, infections, tumors, or structural abnormalities in the ankle.

Can an ankle X-ray detect ligament injuries?

An ankle X-ray cannot directly detect ligament damage; however, indirect signs such as abnormal joint spacing or bone displacement.

How many views are taken during an ankle X-ray?

In an ankle X-ray, three views- anteroposterior (AP), lateral, and mortise are captured.