A patient comes to radiology with a history of chondromalacia of the patella.Her physician orders a projection of the patellofemoral joint space.Due to advanced emphysema, the patient cannot lie recumbent for this projection.Which of the following projections would be best for this patient?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The superoinferior sitting tangential method-Hobbs modification would be the best option for the patient with advanced emphysema who cannot lie recumbent. This projection is taken with the patient seated and the x-ray beam directed at a 10-15 degree angle toward the patella, allowing for the joint space to be visualized without requiring the patient to lie down. The other options (tangential projections - Settegast or Merchant methods and AP axial projection - Béclere method) all require the patient to lie recumbent and would not be suitable for this individual.

A Patient Comes to Radiology with a History of Chondromalacia