CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

In what position can you view the Hilum of the lung?

1. AP position

2. Left Lateral position

3. Right Lateral position

4. Lateral Chest position

The correct answer is: Lateral Chest position

The Hilum of the lung can be best viewed in the Lateral Chest position. This positioning provides a clear profile of the thoracic cavity, allowing for optimal visualization of the structures within the hilum, including major blood vessels and bronchi, as they enter and exit the lungs. In this position, the anterior and posterior aspects of the lungs are separated, which helps to prevent overlapping of structures. This is crucial because the hilum contains important components such as the pulmonary arteries, pulmonary veins, and main bronchi, which can be obscured in other positions. While other positions may provide some visibility of the hilum, the Lateral Chest position ensures a more comprehensive and unobstructed view. For instance, an AP position may not fully depict the structures involved in the hilum due to the superimposition of other mediastinal contents. Similarly, lateral positions specific to either the left or the right lung may limit the assessment of the structures on the opposite side. Therefore, the Lateral Chest position is the optimal choice for assessing the hilum effectively.