CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

What key indicators should be observed in a trauma cervical spine series?

1. Presence of foreign objects

2. Shifting of the lateral masses of the odontoid

3. Swelling around cervical vertebrae

4. Dislocation of the mandible

The correct answer is: Shifting of the lateral masses of the odontoid

In assessing a trauma cervical spine series, one of the key indicators to observe is the shifting of the lateral masses of the odontoid. The odontoid process, or dens, is a critical structure in the cervical spine, specifically the axis or second cervical vertebra. Shifting of the lateral masses may suggest instability, such as a fracture or dislocation, which can have serious implications for spinal stability and neural integrity. Monitoring for lateral mass shifts is vital in trauma cases because it helps to identify potentially life-threatening conditions, such as atlantoaxial dislocation, which can compromise the spinal cord. Radiographic evaluation aims to ensure any such injuries are promptly recognized and appropriately managed. Evaluating the presence of foreign objects, swelling around cervical vertebrae, or dislocation of the mandible, while relevant in a broader trauma assessment, do not specifically address the structural integrity and alignment of the cervical spine as directly as assessing the odontoid. The focus on the odontoid's lateral masses provides essential information about the potential for further injury or complications during treatment.