Hip X-Ray "Frog Leg"
Femoral head and neck.
Patient supine.
Limb flexed, abducted and externally rotated.
Sole of the foot against the contralateral knee.
Central ray: perpendicular to the IR.
Hip joint
75–85 kV · 20–30 mAs
SID ~100–115 cm · grid if indicated
75–85 kV · 30–50 mAs · SID ~100–115 cm
Femoral head and neck visible.
No excessive rotation.
Incorrect limb position.
Incorrect centring.
Movement.
Check for metallic objects.
CONTRAINDICATED in suspected SCFE (Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis): forced abduction and external rotation may worsen acute epiphyseal slippage. → Perform the Löwenstein (cross-table lateral) view instead without mobilising the limb.
Routine gonadal shielding is no longer recommended (AAPM 2021); apply dose optimisation according to the local protocol.