How can a technologist correct an image of an anteroposterior (AP) hip that demonstrates foreshortening of the femoral neck?

How can a technologist correct an image of an anteroposterior (AP) hip that demonstrates foreshortening of the femoral neck?

• A. Increase tube angulation and repeat the exposure
• B. Internally rotate the leg and repeat the exposure
• C. Externally rotate the leg and repeat the exposure
• D. Decrease tube angulation and repeat the exposure

Answer: (B)

Foreshortening on an AP view happens when the femoral neck is not parallel to the image receptor, so the neck projects shorter than it actually is. To correct this, rotate the leg internally so the femoral neck aligns with the detector, typically about 15–20 degrees. This places the neck in the true AP orientation, restoring its length and improving visualization of the joint. Changing the tube angle won’t address the neck’s orientation to the IR and can distort other structures, while external rotation would worsen the foreshortening. Repeating the exposure after proper internal rotation is the appropriate fix.

Foreshortening on an AP view happens when the femoral neck is not parallel to the image receptor, so the neck projects shorter than it actually is. To correct this, rotate the leg internally so the femoral neck aligns with the detector, typically about 15–20 degrees. This places the neck in the true AP orientation, restoring its length and improving visualization of the joint. Changing the tube angle won’t address the neck’s orientation to the IR and can distort other structures, while external rotation would worsen the foreshortening. Repeating the exposure after proper internal rotation is the appropriate fix.