CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

In an LPO position for an L-spine oblique projection, which side is best demonstrated?

1. The right side

2. The left side

3. The anterior side

4. The posterior side

The correct answer is: The left side

In an LPO (Left Posterior Oblique) position for an L-spine oblique projection, the left side of the lumbar spine is best demonstrated. This positioning rotates the patient’s body in such a way that the left side of the lumbar vertebrae is brought more into the plane of the imaging receptor. The oblique projections are specifically designed to visualize certain anatomy better. When positioning in an LPO, it allows for the left zygapophyseal joints to be clearly visible. This advantage stems from the way the vertebrae are angled relative to the film—enhancing the visibility of the structures on the side opposite to the X-ray beam's entrance point. For radiographic work, understanding the orientation and positions is crucial as it directly impacts the clarity of the images obtained of the spinal structures. The oblique projection also contributes to assessing possible pathologies or deformities on the left side more efficiently than other positions would allow.