Question

A patient is suspected of having subluxation of the C-spine. Since the patient cannot be rotated, an oblique projection can be obtained by directing the CR to form an angle of ___ degrees with the coronal plane.

Answer 1

An oblique X-ray projection of the C-spine is achieved by directing the central ray to form an angle around 45 degrees with the coronal plane, allowing for visualization without patient rotation.

Step-by-step explanation:

In a medical context, when a patient is suspected of having a subluxation of the C-spine and they cannot be rotated, an oblique X-ray projection can be obtained by directing the central ray (CR) to form a specific angle with the coronal plane. This angle is typically around 45 degrees, which allows for the visualization of the cervical spine without requiring the patient to be rotated. Given the anatomy of the cervical spine, which includes the atlantoaxial joint allowing for head rotation (shaking the head "no"), achieving the appropriate angle for imaging is crucial for diagnosis without compromising patient safety and comfort.