A patient comes to radiology for a thoracic spine routine.The patient has a history of arthritis of the spine.The radiologist requests that additional projections be taken to demonstrate the zygapophyseal joints.What position(s) and/or projection(s) would be ideal to demonstrate these structures?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The 70° oblique projections are ideal for demonstrating the zygapophyseal joints as they provide a clear view of the joint space by projecting it parallel to the image receptor. A "pillar view" projection does not exist, a swimmer's lateral projection would not provide the desired view, and spot AP and lateral projections would not provide as clear of a view as the 70° oblique projections.

A Patient Comes to Radiology for a Thoracic Spine Routine