Film: 8 x 10 (18 x 24 cm)

Position of patient
- patient in PA or AP position either seated or standing before a VCH
- adjust the height of the cassette to include 1” of the crest of ilium

Position of part
For the first radiograph
- the patient is adjusted in a normally seated or standing position
- midsagittal plane of the body centered to the midline of the grid
- allow hands to hang by the sides
For the second radiograph
- hip or foot of the convex side of the curve is elevated 3 to 4” by placing a sandbag under the buttocks or foot
- the patient must not be supported in this position
- compression band is not employed
- respiration is ssuspended


Centray ray
- CR is perpendicular to the midpoint of the film

Structure shown
- an AP projection of the thoracic and lumbar vertebrae are shown


Evaluation criteria
- thoracic and lumbar vertebrae should be demonstrated and 1” of the iliac crest
- vertebral column should be align down the center of radiograph


Radiation protection
- in PA projection, the amount of radiation received by the gonad area of the patient is significantly reduced compared to the AP projection
- proper collimation, lead shielding placed between the x-ray tube and patient’s gonads further protect the patient from unnecessary radiation


4 projections of the thoracic and lumbar spine used in scoliosis series:

1. AP projection with the patient standing
2. AP projection with the patient supine
3. AP projection with alternate right and left flexion in supine position

Film: 14 x 17 (35 x 43 cm)