Elbow

 Head of Radius
Indications for imaging
? Fractured head of radius. equivocal on standard projections.

 
Anatomy  Demonstrated
Head of radius in profile without superimposition.

 
Basic Patient Position
Routine Lateral position

Patient & Central ray Position for Radial Head

 
Radiation protection
The primary beam is directed towards the body, 
Direct lead rubber gonad protection using a "half apron".
Ensure the lower limbs and torso are not below the table top in the primary beam.

 
Central Ray
The central ray is angles 45 degrees to the film in the direction of the long axis of the humerus and centered to pass through he radial head

 
Exposure Factors
Kv mAS FFD (cm) Grid Focus AEC Cassette
65 5 100 No Fine No 18 x 24 cm

 
Evaluation of the Image
 ID and markers must be present and correct in the appropriate area of the film
Limits of the examination, superiorly distal 3 cm humerus, inferiorly proximal  3 cm forearm, laterally and medially the skin surfaces.
Evidence of collimation on four sides equally around the centering point
The radial head should be projected free of the humerus with only minimal overlap of the ulna.
Exposure should be such that all bone and soft tissue detail is clearly visible



Head of radius Rt Radiograph

 
Related Projections
Elbow AP
Elbow Lat
Elbow Axial

 

Additional modalities


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