Rule of Two: Xray

There are various topics in medicine that can briefly be remembered with a single number and such topics are included in this page titled RULE OF NUMBERS.

Rule of Two

Reading X-ray in Orthopedics

While reading  X-ray in orthopedics, rule of two applies. That is when-ever you read a X ray you need to have 2 views, one joint above the suspected injury site and 1 joint below, comparing both the limbs, repeated/taken 2 weeks apart and commented by 2 orthopedicians.

2 View: AP and lateral view recommended in mostly to see the deformity/ displacement , angulation

2 abnormalities: If one abnormality found always look for the next one as finding one might mask the concurrent another injury.

2 Joints: One joint above and 1 joint below to rule out involvement of joints (r/o assosciated subluxation and dislocations)

2 limbs:  If doubtful always compare with contralateral limb.

2 occasions: Always compare with previous Xray  if available.

2 evaluations: If no previous films, reevaluate the patient and repeat Xray on followup.

2 reviews:  If doubtful should always be reviewed by another observer.