CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which projection of the cervical spine demonstrates the left intervertebral foramen?

1. LPO

2. RAO

3. Lateral projection

4. LAO

The correct answer is: LAO

The projection of the cervical spine that effectively demonstrates the left intervertebral foramen is the LAO (Left Anterior Oblique) position. When performing this projection, the patient's left side is positioned closest to the imaging receptor, which angles the x-ray beam and allows better visualization of the left intervertebral foramen. The oblique position enhances the ability to see the foramina by creating a clear view away from the superimposing vertebrae and other structures. The LAO projection is helpful in clinical practice because it not only shows the intervertebral foramina but also allows for assessment of the corresponding facets and the alignment of the vertebral bodies in that region. This can be crucial in diagnosing conditions such as foraminal stenosis or osteophyte formation that may affect nerve root pathways. Other projections provide different views and may not clearly show the left intervertebral foramen. For example, the LPO (Left Posterior Oblique) shows the right intervertebral foramina instead. The RAO (Right Anterior Oblique) highlights the left side but is designed primarily to visualize the right foramina. A lateral projection provides a profile view but does not effectively highlight the foramina as a more angled projection does.