In which position is the patient's head turned during the AP or PA clavicle projection?

In which position is the patient's head turned during the AP or PA clavicle projection?

• A. To the ipsilateral side
• B. To the contralateral side
• C. Forward facing
• D. Downward

Answer: (B)

In the AP or PA clavicle projection, the patient's head is turned to the contralateral side, which means the head is rotated away from the side being imaged. This positioning helps to reduce the overlap of the clavicle over the thoracic structures and enhances the visibility of the clavicle itself on the radiograph. By having the head turned away from the side of interest, the radiographer can ensure that the anatomical structures of the neck and torso are less likely to obscure the clavicle, leading to clearer images for diagnosis. This positioning technique is a standard practice in radiography to obtain optimal images while minimizing patient movement and discomfort.

In the AP or PA clavicle projection, the patient's head is turned to the contralateral side, which means the head is rotated away from the side being imaged. This positioning helps to reduce the overlap of the clavicle over the thoracic structures and enhances the visibility of the clavicle itself on the radiograph. By having the head turned away from the side of interest, the radiographer can ensure that the anatomical structures of the neck and torso are less likely to obscure the clavicle, leading to clearer images for diagnosis.

This positioning technique is a standard practice in radiography to obtain optimal images while minimizing patient movement and discomfort.