Why rao for a sternum x ray

No suspension of breath - use the Breathing Technique to blur the lung markings. Positioning Correct obliquity is demonstrated by the sternum is seen along side the spine without superimposition of the vertebrae the sternum is seen through the heart shadow Area Covered Entire sternum from the jugular notch superiorly to the xiphoid process inferiorly, and the sternoclavicular joints are seen Collimation Centre: Mid sternum Shutter A: Jugular notch and xiphoid sternum are included Shutter B: The lateral borders of the sternum and sterno-clavicular joints are included Exposure Correct breathing technique is used as evidenced by Lung markings are blurred Cortical outlines of the sternum are seen overlying the heart shadow.

The oblique sternum view a radiographic investigation of the entire sternum often complimenting the lateral sternum projection. The oblique view will show the sternal body in the AP plane, it is used to query fractures or infection 1. It is rare that this projection will be performed, therefore it is considered somewhat difficult due to the lack of practice.

The key to achieving an optimal oblique sternum is:. The projection can be performed in trauma situation no spinal precautions as an LPO supine projection. If spinal precautions are present it can be performed supine AP with a cross angle of degrees and an aligned detector to ensure minimal elongation. Please Note: You can also scroll through stacks with your mouse wheel or the keyboard arrow keys. Updating… Please wait. Unable to process the form. The routine for a sternum generally includes a lateral and an oblique wherein the sternum is shifted to the left of the spine and is superimposed over the homogeneous heart shadow.

An orthostatic-breathing technique generally is used to blur out the lung markings and the ribs overlying the sternum. If preferred, exposure can also be made on suspended expiration. Each technologist should determine the preferred routine for his or her department. One suggested two-image routine is an AP or PA with the area of injury closest to the image receptor IR above or below diaphragm and an oblique projection of the axillary ribs on the side of injury. Therefore the oblique for this routine on an injury to the left anterior ribs would be an RAO shifting the spine away from the area of injury and to increase visibility of the left axillary ribs.

The oblique for an injury to the right posterior ribs would be an RPO wherein the spine again is rotated away from the area of injury. The location of the injury site in relationship to the diaphragm is important for all routines. Your collimated light field will just be in the middle of nowhere on their back, but will look incorrect see figure 4.

All the positioning books will tell you the correct centering is to exit mid sternum and you did at the beginning when you centered the patient while they were AP. If your patient has the perfect density lungs, heart and sternum then you will have a perfectly visualized sternum. As you can see, it is pretty good, but not spectacular. In my experience, the hospitals are missing sternum fractures quite often. A good history is a good place to start. Ask about chest pain and tenderness upon palpation, movement or breathing.