Pelvic X-ray with inlet and outlet views (AP and lateral)
This imaging test helps your doctor examine your pelvic bones, including the hip joints, sacrum, and lower spine, using low-dose X-rays. It’s often used to check for fractures, dislocations, or other bone abnormalities.
["An X-ray of your pelvis can help diagnose issues like broken bones, joint problems, or signs of conditions like arthritis or infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39360-3
- Short code
- XR Pelvis Views+Inlet+Outlet
- Synonyms
- XR Pelvis Views+Inlet+Outlet
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- xr
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like sudden hip or lower back pain, difficulty moving your hips, or if they suspect a fracture, dislocation, or other bone problems. It’s also used before certain surgeries or treatments that require detailed imaging of the pelvic area.
What to Expect During the Test
You’ll lie on your back on a table while an X-ray machine takes pictures of your pelvis from different angles. The inlet view shows the front-to-back perspective, and the outlet view shows the side perspective. The process takes about 10–15 minutes, and you’ll wear a gown. No special preparation is needed, but remove any jewelry or metal objects that could interfere with the images.
Common Reasons for This Test
Common reasons include evaluating hip or lower back pain, checking for fractures or dislocations, assessing joint conditions like arthritis, or planning surgery. It may also be used to diagnose infections, tumors, or other abnormalities in the pelvic region.
Safety and Risks
This test uses low-dose X-rays, which are generally safe. The radiation dose is minimal and considered safe for most adults. However, if you’re pregnant, let your doctor know immediately—X-rays can pose risks to fetal development.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This imaging test provides detailed visual information about the bone structure in your pelvis. Abnormal findings, such as misaligned bones, fractures, or signs of degenerative diseases, can help guide treatment decisions, including physical therapy, medications, or surgical interventions.
Short name
Pelvic X-ray (Inlet/Outlet Views)
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get the results?
Do I need to fast before this test?
What should I wear to the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy