Which line can be used to assess for fracture of the femoral neck?

Skinner's Line is an important radiological assessment tool used to evaluate the femoral neck for possible fractures. This line is drawn on an X-ray by connecting the tip of the greater trochanter of the femur to the inferior aspect of the femoral head. This creates a line that helps to visualize the positioning of the femoral neck in relation to the greater trochanter.

When assessing for a femoral neck fracture, the relationship of the femoral neck to Skinner's Line is critical. If the femoral neck appears above the line, it may indicate a fracture, as the normal anatomy placement is expected to fall below this line. This method provides a clear visual reference that can assist healthcare professionals in diagnosing fractures that may not be obvious upon a cursory examination.

Other lines such as Beck's Line, Rankin's Line, and Johnson's Line, while potentially used in different contexts, are not specifically designated for the assessment of femoral neck fractures. Hence, Skinner's Line is favored in this clinical setting due to its precise methodology and relevance in guiding treatment decisions based on observed anatomy.