ARRT - American Registry of Radiologic Technologists Spine and Pelvis Procedures Questions and Answers

Question 1

A patient is positioned for an AP axial projection of the sacrum. Which of the following describes the correct central ray (CR) orientation and centering point?

Accepted Answer

15 degrees cephalad, centered 2 inches superior to the pubic symphysis

Answer

10 degrees caudad, centered to the ASIS

Answer

Perpendicular, centered midway between the ASIS and pubic symphysis

Answer

25 degrees cephalad, centered to the iliac crest

Question 2

A radiograph of a lateral lumbar spine shows that the L5-S1 intervertebral joint space is not open. The patient was positioned with the midcoronal plane parallel to the image receptor. Which of the following modifications is MOST appropriate for a coned-down 'spot' view?

Accepted Answer

Angle the CR 5-8 degrees caudad

Answer

Angle the CR 5-8 degrees cephalad

Answer

Increase patient flexion at the knees and hips

Answer

Position the patient in a 15-degree posterior oblique

Question 3

To properly visualize the right sacroiliac (SI) joint with minimal superimposition, which of the following positions should be performed?

Accepted Answer

AP projection, left posterior oblique (LPO)

Answer

AP projection, right posterior oblique (RPO)

Answer

PA projection, right anterior oblique (RAO)

Answer

Lateral projection, right side down

Question 4

A trauma patient requires an evaluation for a suspected pelvic ring fracture. The physician orders an AP axial 'outlet' projection (Taylor method). How should the technologist direct the central ray for a male patient?

Accepted Answer

20-35 degrees cephalad, centered 2 inches distal to the superior border of the pubic symphysis

Answer

Perpendicular to the IR, centered 2 inches inferior to the ASIS

Answer

40 degrees caudad, centered to the level of the ASIS

Answer

15 degrees caudad, centered 2 inches superior to the pubic symphysis

Question 5

A scoliosis series including AP right and left bending projections (Ferguson method) is ordered. What is the primary purpose of performing these bending views?

Accepted Answer

To differentiate between structural and functional scoliosis

Answer

To assess the degree of vertebral rotation

Answer

To measure the Cobb angle with maximal spinal flexion

Answer

To evaluate for spondylolisthesis associated with the curvature

Question 6

A radiograph of an AP pelvis is obtained on a patient who was positioned supine on the table with their legs extended. The image demonstrates significant foreshortening of the femoral necks. Which of the following positioning corrections is required for a repeat exposure?

Accepted Answer

Separate the heels and internally rotate the feet and lower limbs 15-20 degrees

Answer

Externally rotate the feet and lower limbs 45 degrees

Answer

Angle the central ray 15 degrees caudad

Answer

Place a support under the patient's knees to flex them slightly