Skull

 Facial-bones Lateral
Indications for imaging
Trauma

 

Anatomy  Demonstrated
Facial bones (superimposed) roof of orbits, zygoma and mandible.


Facial-bones Lateral Anatomy
Meschan, I. 1955 An Atlas of Normal Radiographic Anatomy Saunders, London

 

Basic Patient Position
The patient lies supine on the trolley the midsaggital plane aligned to the long axis of the trolley, interpupilary line parallel to the floor. The cassette is supported alongside the affected side of the face parallel to the midsaggital plane. the chin is raised to bring the orbital meatal line vertical.


Facial-bones Lateral Patient Position
Meschan, I. 1955 An Atlas of Normal Radiographic Anatomy Saunders, London

 
Radiation protection
Avoid irradiation of the thyroid region, direct lead rubber protection my be used.

 
Central Ray
The horizontal ray is centered to a point midway between the outer canthus of the aye and the EAM.

 
Exposure Factors
Kv mAS FFD (cm) Grid Focus AEC Cassette
65 8/12 100 No/Yes Fine No 18 x 24 cm

 
Evaluation of the Image
 ID and anatomical markers must be present and correct in the appropriate area of the film.
Optimal exposure should penetrate all the bone structures and contrast should be low enough to visualise fully the bone and soft tissue structures.
The structures symmetrical to the midline should be superimposed.
Look for fluid/air level in the sphenoid sinus.



Facial-bones Lateral Radiograph (Chin raised)
Related Projections
Routine skull and facial bone projections
Mandible AP and Obliques.

 
Additional modalities
CT