For a lateral cervical X-ray, which anatomical landmarks should be included in the collimation?

In the context of a lateral cervical X-ray, the appropriate anatomical landmarks for collimation should include the sella turcica and C7. The sella turcica is a bony structure located at the base of the skull that houses the pituitary gland, and its inclusion is critical for assessing the upper cervical spine and ensuring the entire region of interest is captured in the image. Including C7 allows practitioners to visualize the lower portion of the cervical spine, which forms the transition to the thoracic spine.

By collimating to these landmarks, the radiographer can minimize unnecessary radiation exposure to surrounding tissues while ensuring that critical anatomical details within the cervical region are well represented in the final X-ray. This approach facilitates accurate diagnosis by providing a comprehensive view of both the upper and lower cervical structures, which may be pertinent in assessing various conditions.