Lumbar Spine Imaging Quiz

What is the recommended SID for an AP lumbar spine projection?

• 72 inches

• 48 inches

• 36 inches

• 60 inches

Why is an AP projection of the lumbar spine most commonly done instead of PA?

• PA projection reduces the lordotic curve

• AP projection puts the vertebrae closer to the IR, reducing OID

• PA projection provides less dose to the gonads

• AP projection accentuates the lordotic curve

What is a disadvantage of PA projection of the lumbar spine?

• It reduces the dose to the bone marrow

• It provides less dose to the gonads

• It increases the dose to the bone marrow

• It decreases the clarity of the vertebral bodies

What is a benefit of PA projection of the lumbar spine?

• It increases abdominal thickness

• It provides a higher dose to the gonads

• It reduces abdominal thickness and provides less dose to the gonads

• It increases the dose to bone marrow

When performing a recumbent lateral lumbar spine X-ray, how should the patient's legs be positioned to ensure no rotation?

• Legs straightened and parallel

• Hips and knees flexed, with knees superimposed and a small sponge/cloth between them

• Hips and knees flexed, with knees apart

• One leg straightened and the other leg flexed

What is the preferred method of positioning for a lateral spine X-ray to ensure the spine is horizontal?

• Place a wedge under the patient's head

• Place a wedge under the patient's lower thorax

• Place a wedge under the patient's pelvis

• No wedge is needed

Which intervertebral foramina are visible in a lateral lumbar spine position?

• L1-L3

• L1-L4

• L2-L5

• L3-L5

Why is L5 difficult to see in a lateral lumbar spine X-ray?

• Due to the magnification of the image

• Because it is often obscured by other anatomy

• Due to the obliquity of the space

• Because it is not included in the field of view

What SID (Source to Image Distance) is recommended to reduce magnification in a lateral lumbar spine X-ray?

• 36 inches or greater

• 40 inches

• 48 inches

• 72 inches or greater

What is the projection used for oblique lumbar spine positions LPO and RPO?

• Lateral

• AP

• PA

• Oblique