CAMRT Radiography Practice Exam

Which position is most effective for visualizing the hepatic flexure in a double-contrast colon series?

1. Supine Position

2. Left Posterior Oblique (LPO)

3. Right Lateral Decubitus

4. Right Anterior Oblique (RAO)

The correct answer is: Left Posterior Oblique (LPO)

The position that is most effective for visualizing the hepatic flexure in a double-contrast colon series is the Left Posterior Oblique (LPO). This specific positioning allows for better delineation of the hepatic flexure due to the way the colon is positioned within the abdominal cavity. In the LPO position, the patient's left side is closer to the imaging receptor, enhancing the contrast between the air-filled areas and the surrounding soft tissues. This alignment also reduces superimposition of the bowel loops, making it easier to identify and assess the hepatic flexure, which is situated in the upper right quadrant of the abdomen. The supine position may not provide the optimal visualization of the hepatic flexure because it tends to compress the abdominal structures, leading to less clear imaging of specific regions of interest like the hepatic flexure. The Right Lateral Decubitus position typically evaluates areas of the colon, including the ascending colon, but may obscure parts of the hepatic flexure due to its orientation. The Right Anterior Oblique (RAO) position focuses on other areas of the colon, primarily the descending portion, and therefore is less effective for visualizing the hepatic flexure. Overall, the LPO position stands out as the most beneficial for obtaining