CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What range of ribs should be visible in an AP Lower rib study?

1. 1st - 5th ribs below the diaphragm

2. 3rd - 8th ribs below the diaphragm

3. 8th - 12th ribs below the diaphragm

4. 6th - 10th ribs below the diaphragm

The correct answer is: 8th - 12th ribs below the diaphragm

In an AP Lower rib study, the visibility of the ribs is crucial for assessing potential injuries or conditions affecting that area. The correct choice indicates that the 8th through 12th ribs should be visible below the diaphragm. This is appropriate because the lower ribs typically represent the final segments of the rib cage that can be effectively visualized in this type of imaging, which focuses on the lower aspects of the thorax, near the abdominal cavity. The visibility of the 8th to 12th ribs ensures that the area of interest, which often encompasses the lower thorax and upper abdomen, is adequately represented for analysis. This range captures the last several ribs that lie above critical structures such as the liver and kidneys and is also significant for identifying any pathologies in the lower rib area. Other ranges would not provide a complete view of the lower ribs or would focus on regions that are typically not included in lower rib studies. For instance, ribs from the 1st to the 5th would be too high and not relevant for the lower rib evaluation. Similarly, visibility of only the 3rd to the 8th ribs may miss important lower rib areas that could be clinically significant. The range of the 6th to the 10