During a right anterior oblique (RAO) projection of the sternum, how much should a patient be rotated from the prone position?

Prepare for the Clover Learning Rad Tech Boot Camp exam. Study with comprehensive quizzes on key concepts, featuring multiple choice questions with detailed explanations to enhance learning. Equip yourself for success!

In a right anterior oblique (RAO) projection of the sternum, the patient should be rotated approximately 15-20 degrees from a prone position. This specific degree of rotation is optimal because it allows for the sternum to be positioned correctly to reduce overlying shadow from the thoracic vertebrae while still demonstrating the sternum clearly against the heart shadow. The appropriate angle provides a balance between visualizing the sternum distinctly and minimizing distortion, ensuring that anatomical relationships can be assessed accurately.

Inadequate rotation may obscure the sternum or fail to separate it from the surrounding structures effectively, leading to compromised imaging quality. Conversely, over-rotation can project the sternum too far out of alignment, which can also distort the image. Thus, the 15-20 degree range is crucial for achieving the desired radiographic outcome.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy