Thigh bone (femur) X-ray
Quick answer: A femur X-ray shows the thigh bone, the longest bone in the body, from hip to knee. Doctors usually order it after an injury, for thigh pain, or to check healing after a fracture or surgery.
- SampleImaging (no sample)
- TakesAbout 10 to 15 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed, but remove metal items from the area and tell staff if you might be pregnant.
How the test is done
- 1You change into a gown and remove anything metal from your hips and legs
- 2You lie on your back on the table with the leg straight
- 3The picture may be taken in two parts to cover hip to knee
- 4For the side view you may roll slightly or the machine moves around you
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A radiologist reports on the images, and your doctor will explain what the findings mean for you.
If the result is outside the usual range
A femur X-ray can show a fracture, the position of plates, rods or screws after surgery, how well a fracture is healing, or areas of bone that look thinner or denser than normal and need further tests.
Who usually has this test
People with a thigh injury from a fall or accident, unexplained thigh pain, or a past femur fracture or surgery being followed up.
Risks and aftercare
Moving an injured leg can be painful, so staff will help you into position; the dose is low, and tell them if you might be pregnant.
Names and options
Also called: femur X-ray, X-ray femur, thigh X-ray
Options
- Front view (AP)
- Front and side views (AP and lateral)
- Front and side views, both sides
Listed by the hospital as
- FEMUR AP DIGITAL X-RAY
- DIGITAL X-RAY FEMUR AP
- FEMUR AP, LAT DIGITAL X-RAY
- FEMUR AP, LAT (BOTH) DIGITAL X-RAY
Questions about this test
Can a femur X-ray show a stress fracture?
Early stress fractures are often not visible on X-ray. If symptoms suggest one, your doctor may repeat the X-ray after a couple of weeks or order an MRI.
Why is my femur X-ray done in two parts?
The femur is long, and one picture may not cover both the hip and knee ends. Two overlapping pictures make sure the whole bone and both joints are seen.
Will metal from surgery affect my X-ray?
No, plates and rods show clearly on X-ray, and the picture is often taken to check them. Tell staff about any implants so they can position you correctly.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.