Upper Extremities
23 Clavicle
Anatomy
acromial extremity, upper ribs, sternal extremity, shaft or body of the clavicle, acromion process, acromioclavicular joint
Projections
[Part], PA or AP
CR Location
[Part], PA or AP –
Evaluation Criteria
AP Image Criteria: Clavicle should be seen in a true AP as noted by: a symmetrical appearance of SC joints, if visualized; an AP appearance of the proximal humerus and glenohumeral joint; an AP appearance of the upper thoracic spine. The head should be seen turned away from the affected side. Clavicle should be seen from the SC joint to the acromioclavicular joint. Technique should penetrate clavicle at SC joint, but not completely burn out the lateral end.
AP Semi axial Image Criteria: Demonstrates the clavicle in a more horizontal appearance and projected above ribs. Indicated a 25-degree cephalic angle was used. The medial end may be superimposed over the first or second ribs. The head should be seen turned away from the affected side. Entire clavicle should be visualized, from SC joint to AC joint.
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Hows & Whys of Clavicle Radiography
- Why would a PA projection of the clavicle be preferable to the AP projection?
- Less object image distance, so less magnification and better detail.
- What is a commonly used term for the clavicle?
- The collar bone.
- With what bone does the proximal end of the clavicle articulate?
- The manubrium of the sternum.
- With what bone does the distal end of the clavicle articulate?
- The acromion process of the scapula.
- What projection could be done to clear the clavicle of the lungs?
- The AP semi axial.