Radiographic Techniques for Clavicle Imaging

Overview

• Demonstration of two radiographic views for imaging the clavicle: AP (Anteroposterior) Clavicle and AP Axial Clavicle.
• Both views can be performed with the patient standing at the upright bucky or lying supine on the radiographic table.

AP Clavicle View

• Positioning:
  • Patient is positioned standing or lying supine.
  • Source-to-image distance (SID): 40 inches.
  • No tube angulation.
• Central Ray:
  • Centered directly to the clavicle.
  • Collimation should be open to include the entire clavicle.
  • Center between the jugular notch and the lateral portion of the shoulder.
• Markers and Anatomical Position:
  • Place a left marker on the left side.
  • Patient’s hand should turn forward to maintain anatomical position.
• Breathing Instructions:
  • Instruct the patient to take a big deep breath in, exhale completely, and hold still during exposure.
• Image Requirements:
  • Diagnostic image free of motion and rotation.
  • Includes entire clavicle, acromioclavicular, and sternoclavicular joints.
  • Proper visualization of bony detail is essential.

AP Axial Clavicle View

• Positioning:
  • Similar patient positioning as the AP view, with patient either standing or supine.
  • SID remains 40 inches.
• Tube Angulation:
  • Tube should be angled 15 to 30 degrees cephalic depending on the patient’s body habitus.
• Central Ray:
  • Centered at the inferior portion of the clavicle.
  • Maintain the left marker on the left side.
• Breathing Instructions:
  • Instruct the patient to inhale deeply and hold the breath without moving during exposure.
• Image Requirements:
  • Diagnostic image free of motion and rotation.
  • Demonstrates the entire clavicle including acromioclavicular and sternoclavicular joints.
  • Proper visualization of bony detail required.

Key Points

• Both views aim to provide a clear and detailed image of the clavicle and its joints.
• Patient positioning and precise breathing instructions are crucial to obtaining a quality radiograph.
• Correct tube angulation in the AP Axial view is important to avoid distortion and ensure detailed visualization of anatomical structures.