GXMO Anatomy and Radiographic Procedures Flashcards

Which anatomical structure is located at the level of the sternal angle (angle of Louis) and is used as a landmark for chest X-rays?

Answer: T4-T5 intervertebral disc

The sternal angle (angle of Louis) corresponds to the level of the T4-T5 intervertebral disc and marks the carina of the trachea.

For a PA chest X-ray, the patient's hands should be placed:

Answer: On the hips with elbows rotated forward

Placing hands on the hips with elbows rotated forward moves the scapulae laterally, preventing them from overlying the lung fields.

Which projection is best for demonstrating fluid levels in the sinuses?

Answer: Erect PA or Waters projection

Erect positioning (PA or Waters) allows fluid to pool at the bottom of sinuses, creating visible air-fluid levels on the radiograph.

The recommended SID (source-to-image distance) for a routine PA chest X-ray is:

Answer: 72 inches (183 cm)

A 72-inch SID is used for PA chest X-rays to minimize magnification of the heart and reduce patient dose.

Which bone forms the posterior portion of the hard palate and is demonstrated on a Waters (parietoacanthial) projection?

Answer: Palatine bone

The palatine bone forms the posterior one-third of the hard palate and is visible in the Waters projection used for facial bone evaluation.

When performing a KUB (kidneys, ureters, bladder) radiograph, the central ray is directed to:

Answer: Iliac crest level

The central ray for a KUB is directed to the level of the iliac crests to include all urinary structures from the kidneys to the bladder.