Question

In order to adequately demonstrate the lumbosacral Z articulation, what angle should the mid-coronal plane and the plane of the IR form with the patient positioned in a 45-degree right posterior oblique position of the lumbar vertebrae?

1) 30 degrees
2) 45 degrees
3) 60 degrees
4) 90 degrees

Answer 1

In a 45-degree right posterior oblique position of the lumbar vertebrae, the mid-coronal plane and the plane of the IR should form a 45-degree angle to adequately demonstrate the lumbosacral Z articulation.

Step-by-step explanation:

To properly demonstrate the lumbosacral Z articulation when the patient is positioned in a 45-degree right posterior oblique position of the lumbar vertebrae, the mid-coronal plane of the patient and the plane of the image receptor (IR) should form a 45-degree angle. This ensures that the anatomy of interest is correctly aligned with the X-ray beam, which is essential for producing a clear diagnostic image. It is important to observe the proper positioning to diagnose conditions such as lordosis, kyphosis, and scoliosis that can cause alterations in normal vertebral curvatures and function.