Trans-Table Intraoperative Fluoroscopic Technique for Obtaining a True Lateral View of the Proximal Femur in the Lateral Decubitus Position

Document Type : TECHNICAL NOTE

Authors

Bone and Joint reconstruction research center, Department of Orthopedics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The management of proximal femoral fractures, especially comminuted subtrochanteric ones, poses a 
surgical challenge. It is relatively easier to perform the open reduction of these fractures in the lateral 
position on a standard radiolucent table, but obtaining an accurate lateral view of the femoral head and 
neck remains difficult. This study presents a method that overcomes the limitations of fluoroscopy in 
the lateral decubitus position and improves the accuracy of obtaining a true lateral view. The technique 
involves positioning the patient in the lateral decubitus position with the u naffected hip flexed at a 45°
angle. Additionally, the C-arm is tilted 30-35° cephalad, eliminating the need for position changes or 
leg manipulation. This method reduces the risk of losing reduction, particularly in cases involving obese 
patients or complex fractures. By simplifying proximal femur fixation in the lateral decubitus position, 
this technique can potentially improve patient outcomes.
 Level of evidence: V

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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The Archives of Bone and Joint Surgery
Volume 11, Issue 8
August 2023
Pages 531-534

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History

  • Receive Date: 14 June 2023
  • Revise Date: 31 July 2023
  • Accept Date: 17 June 2023

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