CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What is the best projection to demonstrate the right cervical intervertebral foramina?

1. Anteroposterior (AP) axial oblique projection, right posterior oblique (RPO) position

2. Posteroanterior (PA) axial oblique projection, LAO position

3. Anteroposterior (AP) axial oblique projection, left posterior oblique (LPO) position

4. Cross table lateral projection, dorsal recumbent position

The correct answer is: Anteroposterior (AP) axial oblique projection, left posterior oblique (LPO) position

The best projection to demonstrate the right cervical intervertebral foramina is the anteroposterior (AP) axial oblique projection in the left posterior oblique (LPO) position. This positioning effectively visualizes the right cervical intervertebral foramina because it angles the x-ray beam appropriately while the patient's body is in such a position that the right foramina are projected into the x-ray field. In this case, the left posterior oblique position allows for optimal visualization of the right foramina by providing a clear lateral view. The angle of the x-ray beam in this projection is typically around 15-20 degrees cephalad, which opens up the foramina and minimizes superimposition of the cervical spine vertebrae. This technique is advantageous in clinical practice as it provides a clear image while minimizing patient discomfort and uncertainty in the anatomical structures being visualized. Other projections may not specifically target the right intervertebral foramina effectively. While some projections like the anteroposterior axial oblique in the RPO position can also provide valuable views of the foramina, they primarily focus on the opposite side (left), making them less optimal for visualizing the right cervical foramina specifically. The cross table lateral projection, while