Sternum

Thorax and Abdomen

4 Sternum

jugular or suprasternal notch, clavicular notch, costal facets, manubrium, sternal angle, sternal body, xiphoid process.

CR Location

[Part], PA or AP –

Evaluation Criteria

RAO Sternum Image Criteria: Entire sternum should be visualized within the heart shadow.

Lateral Sternum Image Criteria: Entire sternum visualized without superimposition of ribs or arms (indicating no rotation).

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What bone forms the anterior portion of the bony thorax?
- The sternum
At what level is the jugular notch located?
- T2 – 3
At what level is the xiphoid process located?
- T9 – 10
Why should the sternum be imaged at distances of less than 40 inches?
- Shorter SID causes magnification and loss of detail in the overlying thoracic structures, making it easier to visualize the sternum.
How far should we keep the tube from the patient for safety reasons?
- The tube should never be closer than 12 inches to the patient.
In trauma patients who cannot stand or be turned onto their abdomens, what alternate view can be performed?
- LPO
In order to better visualize the sternum, the patient should be rotated so that the sternum is superimposed over what thoracic structure?
- The heart
Why should lateral sternum images be performed at 60 to 72 inches SID?
- A longer SID is recommended to reduce the magnification caused by the large OID.