Position: Ankle Lateral The lateral ankle projection demonstrates the talus, calcaneus, and distal tibia. It evaluates fractures and soft tissue swelling. Proper positioning prevents rotation. This projection complements AP and mortise views. It is frequently tested on ARRT exams.
Position: Foot AP The AP foot projection demonstrates the metatarsals and phalanges. A slight angle opens joint spaces. This projection evaluates fractures and deformities. Proper centering ensures full coverage. It is a core ARRT competency.
Position: Chest PA The chest PA projection is the standard frontal view used in radiography because it minimizes cardiac magnification and provides optimal lung visualization. The patient stands facing the detector with shoulders rolled forward to move the scapulae laterally. A 72 inch SID reduces geometric distortion and improves sharpness. This projection evaluates lung fields, … Read more
Position: Chest Lateral The lateral chest projection provides depth information and evaluates structures obscured on the PA view. The patient stands with the left side against the detector to reduce cardiac magnification. Arms are raised to prevent superimposition. This projection is essential for assessing retrosternal and retrocardiac spaces. It is a core ARRT requirement for … Read more
Position: Chest AP Mobile The AP mobile chest is used when patients cannot stand, such as in ICU or trauma settings. The AP view increases heart magnification, which must be considered during interpretation. Proper centering and minimizing rotation are critical for diagnostic quality. This projection evaluates lines, tubes, and acute pathology. It is heavily tested … Read more
Position: Chest AP Lordotic The AP lordotic projection visualizes the lung apices free of clavicular superimposition. The patient leans backward or the tube is angled cephalad to project the clavicles superiorly. This view is used to evaluate apical lesions such as tuberculosis or Pancoast tumors. Proper positioning prevents distortion of the ribs and sternum. It … Read more
Position: Chest Lateral Decubitus The lateral decubitus chest projection evaluates pleural effusion and pneumothorax. The patient lies on their side, allowing fluid to layer or air to rise. A horizontal beam is essential for accurate fluid or air demonstration. This projection is frequently used in trauma and critical care. It is a standard ARRT competency … Read more
Position: Abdomen AP Supine The AP supine abdomen, also called the KUB, evaluates bowel gas patterns, organ size, and abdominal pathology. The patient lies flat with the detector under the pelvis and abdomen. This projection is essential for assessing obstruction, calcifications, and soft tissue structures. Proper centering at the iliac crests ensures full coverage. It … Read more
Position: Abdomen AP Upright The upright abdomen demonstrates air fluid levels and free intraperitoneal air. The patient stands or sits upright for at least five minutes before exposure. A horizontal beam is required for accurate fluid visualization. This projection is critical for diagnosing perforation or obstruction. It is a standard ARRT exam requirement.
Position: Abdomen Left Lateral Decubitus The left lateral decubitus abdomen is used when patients cannot stand. The left side is placed down to avoid confusion with gastric air. A horizontal beam demonstrates free air beneath the right hemidiaphragm. This projection is essential for acute abdominal series. It is frequently tested on ARRT exams.