A patient enters the ED due to an MVA.He is on a backboard and in a cervical collar.The initial lateral cervical spine projection demonstrates C1-6.The patient has broad and thick shoulders.Because the hospital is in a rural setting, no CT scanner is available.Which of the following modifications would best demonstrate the lower cervical spine safely?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Performing the horizontal beam cervicothoracic (swimmer's) lateral position is the best option in this scenario. The patient's broad and thick shoulders make it difficult to obtain a clear image of the lower cervical spine with the standard lateral projection. The swimmer's lateral position allows for better visualization of the lower cervical spine by separating the shoulders from the cervical spine, reducing superimposition, and allowing for better alignment of the cervical vertebrae. This position is safe and does not require the patient to move or be manipulated. It is also a commonly used position in trauma imaging when a CT scanner is not available.

A Patient Enters the ED Due to an MVA