Tib-Fib Lateral
Position the Patient
- Seated or supine
- Turn leg into true lateral
- Opposite leg may be used for support
- Dorsiflex foot slightly (toes up)
Words That Work
“Roll onto your affected side so the outside of your leg rests against the plate. Keep your knee and foot turned together, like rolling a log. Bend your knee slightly and pull your toes toward your nose. Hold still.”
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Lateral tib-fib positioning
Set Up the Shot
- Center here
- Central ray
- Mid‑shaft of tibia/fibula
- Include this in the field
- Collimation
- Entire tibia and fibula · Include knee joint and ankle joint
- Set the distance
- SID
- 40" (increase if needed to include both joints)
- Check the technique
- Technique
- 60-65 kVp
- Follow facility protocols
Common Pitfalls
- •Not true lateral (tibia not over fibula)
- •Knee or ankle joint not included
Evaluate the Image
What should be visible?
- Entire tibia and fibula
- Knee joint
- Ankle joint
Does the image pass?
- ✓True lateral (tibia over fibula)
- ✓Entire tib‑fib included
- ✓Both joints visible