What is the appropriate horizontal collimation for an AP cervical X-ray?

What is the appropriate horizontal collimation for an AP cervical X-ray?

• A. Include vertebrae from C1 to C7
• B. Include apices of the lung
• C. Include the entire neck region
• D. Include shoulder joints

Answer: (B)

In an AP cervical X-ray, the appropriate horizontal collimation should include the apices of the lung. This is important because the AP cervical view typically needs sufficient exposure that encompasses the cervical spine and provides additional anatomical landmarks, which may include the upper parts of the lungs. By including the apices, the radiologist can evaluate the entire region more effectively for any potential pathologies involving the cervical vertebrae and surrounding structures. This collimation ensures that the X-ray captures all relevant areas, including potential abnormalities or conditions that could affect either the cervical spine or adjacent thoracic structures. It also contributes to reducing radiation exposure to surrounding tissues by limiting the radiation beam only to necessary areas, thus demonstrating good radiographic practice. While other options might seem plausible, they either include excessive areas not pertinent to the AP cervical view or focus too broadly on regions that are not relevant to diagnostic assessment for cervical spine issues.

In an AP cervical X-ray, the appropriate horizontal collimation should include the apices of the lung. This is important because the AP cervical view typically needs sufficient exposure that encompasses the cervical spine and provides additional anatomical landmarks, which may include the upper parts of the lungs. By including the apices, the radiologist can evaluate the entire region more effectively for any potential pathologies involving the cervical vertebrae and surrounding structures.

This collimation ensures that the X-ray captures all relevant areas, including potential abnormalities or conditions that could affect either the cervical spine or adjacent thoracic structures. It also contributes to reducing radiation exposure to surrounding tissues by limiting the radiation beam only to necessary areas, thus demonstrating good radiographic practice.

While other options might seem plausible, they either include excessive areas not pertinent to the AP cervical view or focus too broadly on regions that are not relevant to diagnostic assessment for cervical spine issues.