Knee X-Ray Referral

• Knee discomfort following a fall or injury
• Swelling or stiffness in the knee area
• Difficulty in bearing weight
• Restricted range of motion
• Clicking, locking, or feelings of instability
• Ongoing knee pain that does not improve

Note: If you have experienced a severe injury, are unable to put any weight on your leg, or notice a visible deformity in the joint, please call 000 or visit the nearest Emergency Department immediately. Online consultations are not suitable for acute trauma requiring urgent physical assessment.

• Fractures: Breaks in the femur, tibia, fibula, or patella
• Dislocations: Misalignment of the joint at the knee
• Osteoarthritis: Reduced joint space, presence of bone spurs, and wear on cartilage
• Inflammatory arthritis: Damage to the joint linked to inflammatory disorders
• Bone cysts or tumours (in certain instances): Unusual growths in the bone that need further investigations

Various views are captured to examine the knee from different angles for a thorough assessment.

• AP (anteroposterior) view: A frontal view of the knee joint
• Lateral view: A side perspective to evaluate alignment and joint structure
• Weight-bearing view: Taken while the patient is standing to assess joint space under pressure
• Skyline (sunrise) view: Concentrates on the kneecap and its positioning

A knee X-ray displays the bones of the knee joint, such as the femur, tibia, fibula, and patella. It aids in identifying fractures, issues with joint alignment, and indications of arthritis or degeneration.

• It does not provide a clear view of soft tissues like ligaments, tendons, or cartilage.
• It might not identify meniscus or ligament injuries.
• It involves low levels of radiation exposure.
• Further imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound may be necessary.

Note: While telehealth offers a convenient way to discuss your symptoms, a physical examination by a GP is often necessary to accurately diagnose joint issues. Your online doctor will determine if an in-person assessment is required before a referral can be safely issued.

• Take off any jewellery or metallic objects near the knee.
• Notify the radiographer if you are pregnant or think you could be expecting.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing.
• Adhere to any specific guidelines given by the imaging centre.