A patient enters the ED with a possible cervical spine fracture.The initial AP and lateral projections were negative for fracture of C1 to C6.The ED physician wants a projection to demonstrate the C7-T1.Which of the following projections would demonstrate these structures?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The cervicothoracic lateral projection, also known as the "swimmer's view," is specifically designed to demonstrate the lower cervical and upper thoracic vertebrae (C7-T1) when the standard lateral cervical spine projection does not provide a clear view of these areas. This projection requires the patient to position their arms in such a way as to move the shoulders out of the plane of the spine, allowing for better visualization of the C7-T1 region.

A Patient Enters the ED with a Possible Cervical Spine