Caudocranial horizontal beam radiographic projection for evaluation of femoral fracture and osteotomy repair in dogs and cats

A new radiographic projection of the femur was evaluated for use in the assessment of fracture or osteotomy repair in small animals. The view is obtained by directing the x-ray beam horizontally through the hind limb, from caudad to craniad, with the animal positioned in lateral recumbency, the hip flexed, and the stifle extended. Views obtained, using the new projection, were compared with the standard ventrodorsal views of the pelvis, with hind limbs extended. Osteotomy lines in the femoral shaft were significantly (P less than 0.01) more visible on the horizontal beam view. Significant difference was not evident in visibility of fracture lines between the 2 radiographic projections. The horizontal beam view was easily obtained, and equivalent to the standard ventrodorsal view for radiographic evaluation of femoral fracture and osteotomy repair.