CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What do C-spine flexion/extension views assess?

1. Anterior and posterior movement or lack of movement due to an injury

2. Fractures in the cervical vertebrae

3. The alignment of the vertebral column

4. Soft tissue injury in the cervical region

The correct answer is: Anterior and posterior movement or lack of movement due to an injury

C-spine flexion and extension views are specifically designed to assess the stability and range of movement of the cervical spine. They evaluate anterior and posterior movement, which is crucial for identifying any pathological conditions that may limit movement or indicate an injury, such as instability following trauma. By imaging the cervical spine in both flexion and extension, radiologists can observe the dynamics between vertebrae during movement, which can reveal issues such as excessive motion or evidence of previous injuries that may cause imbalance or misalignment. While assessing for fractures in the cervical vertebrae or the alignment of the vertebral column can be important in other imaging scenarios, C-spine flexion/extension views primarily focus on the functional motion of the spine under stress. Additionally, soft tissue injuries are not the main focus of these views, as they primarily provide insights into the bony structures and their functional relationship within the joint. Understanding the mechanics of how the cervical vertebrae move in flexion and extension underlies the rationale for using these specific views in radiographic assessments.