Standard X-ray of the lower limb: femur, knee and kneecap, leg, ankle and foot, weight-bearing views and full-length leg X-ray (pangonogram)
Lower Limb X-Ray (Knee, Leg, Ankle, Foot) in Casablanca
This X-ray examines the bones and joints of the lower limb, from the thigh to the foot, after an injury or for pain. Some images are taken standing, with weight on the leg, to see the joint under the body's weight. It clearly shows fractures, osteoarthritis, the shape of the foot bones and the alignment of the legs. Menisci, ligaments and tendons are barely visible: depending on the question, ultrasound or MRI completes the assessment.
Duration, report and equipment
Duration
Usually 5 to 15 minutes.
Report turnaround
Report within 24 hours. In an emergency, during opening hours, the report is handed over immediately.
Equipment
Carestream
Reading aid
The center uses Gleamer, artificial intelligence software that helps the radiologist read X-rays. Interpretation and the report are still done by the radiologist.
When is this exam needed?
- Sprain or fall with pain when putting weight on the leg.
- Knee pain suggesting osteoarthritis.
- Flat foot or pain in the front of the foot.
- Measuring leg alignment before surgery.
- Checking a fracture treated with a cast or surgery, or a knee replacement.
- Heel pain, looking for a heel spur.
How the exam is done
On arrival, the radiographer checks the area and side requested on the prescription, then shows you to the changing room. Tell us about a joint replacement, screws or a cast: they do not prevent the exam, but the radiologist must take them into account.
Depending on the area, you remove your shoes, socks or pants. You are positioned lying down, sitting or standing: knee bent for the kneecap, standing on both feet for a weight-bearing image. The pangonogram shows both legs in a single image. Stay still for a few seconds for each pose. After each pose, the image appears on the screen and the radiographer checks its quality. Once the images are done, you get dressed and can leave right away.
Preparation
- Wear shorts or pants that are easy to remove.
- Bring your previous X-rays of the same area, especially if your osteoarthritis is being monitored.
- If you walk with crutches, come with someone who can help you onto the table.
Fasting
You can eat and drink freely.
Contrast injection
Nothing is injected.
Contraindications and precautions
- Possible pregnancy: please tell us, especially for the thigh or a pangonogram.
- Unable to stand: let the team know, and the images will be adapted.
- Cast, splint or resin cast: keep them on, as X-rays pass through them.
- Visible deformity or unable to put weight on the leg after an injury: see a doctor quickly.
Documents to bring
- Prescription from the doctor or surgeon
- Previous X-rays of the same area
- Surgical report if you have a joint replacement or surgical hardware
- Insurance or mutual insurance fund card
Price and insurance coverage
The center accepts coverage from insurance companies and the main mutual insurance funds. You submit the coverage request to your insurer or fund yourself. For AtlantaSanad and Sanlam, the center takes care of it.
No prices are shown on this site: Kenza gives you the exact price on WhatsApp, along with the coverage procedure for your situation.
Frequently asked questions
Why stand up?
When you stand, the body's weight presses the joints together. A weight-bearing image thus shows the real wear of the cartilage or the deformity of the foot.
What is a pangonogram?
A large image of both lower limbs, taken standing, from the hip to the ankle. It measures leg alignment, often before surgery.
Does an ankle sprain require an X-ray?
No. The doctor requests it based on specific criteria, such as pain over the bone or being unable to take a few steps.
Why X-ray both sides?
Comparing helps interpret an image, especially in children, whose growth plates can look like a fracture.
Can I have the X-ray as an emergency after a sprain?
Yes, during opening hours, an X-ray prescribed as an emergency can be performed at the center. Come with the prescription: the doctor will have decided beforehand that the image is useful.
What does a knee X-ray show in osteoarthritis?
It shows the bones getting closer together, a sign of cartilage wear, and small bony growths at the edges. The cartilage itself is not directly visible.