ARRT practice exam - spine Questions and Answers with complete solution

How many vertebrae are located in the cervical region of the spine? - 7 What is the odontoid process and where is it located? - A toothlike projection on the superior surface of C2 When taking an AP axial projection of the cervical spine, the central ray is directed: - 15 degrees cephalad What is the rationale for using a 72-inch SID for the lateral projection of the cervical spine? - This SID helps to overcome the magnification caused by the increased OID of the position What anatomic structures of the cervical spine are best demonstrated by the lateral projection? - Zygapophyseal joints What is the proper central ray angle and direction for the AP oblique projections of the cervical spine? - 15 degrees cephalad What is the proper patient position for an AP oblique projection of the cervical spine? - a 45- degree posterior oblique position What anatomic structures are best demonstrated by the PA oblique projections of the cervical spine? - Intevertebral foramina closer to the IR How many vertebrae make up the thoracic spine? - 12 Which vertebrae have special facets for articulation with the ribs? - Thoracic Breathing technique is used to advantage when taking a lateral projection of the - thoracic spineThe patient is positioned with the coronal plane of the body perpendicular to the IR, and the arm closest to the IR raised over the head. The central ray is perpendicular and centered to the level of the C7 to T1 interspace. What projection and anatomy will be demonstrated in the image - A lateral projection of the cervicothoracic region What device may be used to improve visualization of the spinous processes of the thoracic spine on the lateral projection? - A piece of lead placed behind the shadow of the patient's back Which structures should be seen on the lateral projection of the thoracic spine? - T3 through T12 What is the number of vertebrae in the normal lumbar spine? - 5 Which portion of the spine is made up of five vertebrae and has a lordotic curve? - Lumbar When using a 14" x 17" IR, where should the central ray enter the patient for an AP projection of the lumbar spine - At the level of the iliac crest in the midline of the patient When using a 10" x 12" IR where should the central ray enter the patient for an AP projection of the lumbar spine - At 1.5 inches superior to the iliac crest in the midline of the patient What positioning maneuver is used to improve patient comfort and reduce the lordotic curve of the lumbar spine when positioning a recumbent patient for an AP projection of the lumbar spine? - Flexing the knees and using a support under them Which projection of the lumbar spine demonstrates open intervertebal formina - Lateral Which of the following body positions will demonstrate the left zygapophyseal joints of the lumbar spine - 45 degrees left posterior oblique (LPO) What specific anatomy is best demonstrated on the AP oblique projection of the lumbar spine if the patient is positioned in a 45-degree RPO position? - Right zygapophyseal jointsWhat is the central ray angle and direction for the AP axial projection of the sacrum? - 15 degrees cephalad What portion of the spine is commonly called the tailbone? - Coccyx Which of the following statements is true regarding spine radiography to evaluate scoliosis? - The IR should extend from the top of the patients ear to the level of the greater trochanter