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| What are the standard views for imaging the lumbar spine? | AP , LATERAL, LPO, RPO, SPOT |
| AP (Anteroposterior view | The patient lies flat on their back, and the X-ray beam is directed from front to back. Evaluates vertebral alignment, disk spaces, and for signs of fractures. |
| Lateral View | The patient lies on their side or in a lateral recumbent position. Highlights vertebral body height, intervertebral discs, and spinal alignment. |
| Oblique view | The patient is rotated 45° to the side, capturing the pars interarticularis (part of the facet joint). This view is useful for evaluating the lumbosacral joint and the posterior elements. |
| How can you identify lumbar fractures on X-ray? | Fractures typically appear as discontinuities or displacement of the vertebrae. Compression fractures often show a wedge-shaped vertebra. Fracture lines may be visible in the vertebral body or spinous processes. |
| How should the lumbar spine appear on a properly aligned lateral lumbar spine X-ray? | Vertebral bodies should be superimposed without rotation. The intervertebral disc spaces should be even and parallel. The spinous processes should be aligned along the midline of the vertebral bodies. Sagittal curves should be normal: slight lordosis in the lumbar region. |
| What safety precautions should be followed during lumbar spine X-rays? | Shielding: Use lead aprons to protect the patient’s reproductive organs and surrounding tissues. Positioning: Ensure proper patient positioning to avoid repeat exposures. Radiation Dose: Use the lowest possible dose (ALARA principle) to obtain diagnostic-quality images. Pregnancy: Always confirm that the patient is not pregnant before performing an X-ray. If unsure, consider using alternative imaging modalities like MRI (no radiation). |
| What are the common clinical indications for lumbar spine X-rays? | Back pain: Especially when there is suspicion of fractures, arthritis, or herniated discs. Trauma: To evaluate for fractures or spinal instability after an accident or injury. Neurological symptoms: If the patient reports symptoms like numbness, tingling, or weakness in the lower extremities. Post-surgical evaluation: To assess spinal alignment or complications after spine surgery. |
