CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which vertebral structures are best demonstrated if a supine patient is rotated 45 degrees with the right side elevated and a perpendicular central ray?

1. Intervertebral foramen of the right side

2. Zygapophyseal joints of the left side

3. Spinous processes

4. Transverse processes of the right side

The correct answer is: Zygapophyseal joints of the left side

In this scenario, when a supine patient is rotated 45 degrees with the right side elevated, the zygapophyseal joints of the left side are optimally demonstrated. The 45-degree rotation places the left zygapophyseal joints in profile, allowing for a clearer view and minimizing superimposition from adjacent structures. The zygapophyseal joints, also known as facet joints, are located between the articular processes of adjacent vertebrae, enabling articulation and allowing for a degree of flexibility in the spine. Proper visualization of these joints is crucial for diagnosing conditions related to spinal alignment, degeneration, and joint function. In contrast, other choices do not provide optimal views in this position. The intervertebral foramen of the right side is not well demonstrated due to the rotation positioning, which would instead provide a better view of the left foramen. Spinous processes may not be distinctly visualized in this rotation, as they would be more aligned with the central ray and potentially obscured by adjacent structures. Lastly, the transverse processes of the right side would not be as well visualized due to the rotation primarily projecting the left side of the body.