(5) Make both projections of each position on the same film when possible
(that is, both craniocaudad, both mediolateral, et cetera).
b. Craniocaudad.
(1) Ensure that the film holder is in close contact with the chest wall. Such
placement will result in demonstrating the maximum amount of breast tissue.
(2) Have the patient sit up straight and even lean backwards a bit to
preclude superimposition of the clavicle over the breast.
c. Mediolateral. Make sure that the opposite breast does not overlie the one
being examined. At times, it may be necessary to have the patient hold the opposite
breast to preclude such superimposition.
Section II. PEDIATRIC RADIOGRAPHY
4-11. INTRODUCTION
Pediatric radiography deals with infants and children up to 12 years of age. With
certain exceptions, the basic fundamentals of the technique are substantially the same
as for any other age group.
4-12. HANDLING OF INFANTS AND SMALL CHILDREN
The handling of infants and small children requires special care and patience on
the part of everyone concerned in the examination. When it is apparent that an infant or
a small child is going to be difficult to manage, it may be helpful to have one of the
parents or a family friend remain in the room during the examination. However, in some
cases, it may be best to have a nurse or other attendant help to manage the intractable
child while the relatives remain elsewhere.
4-13. PHYSICAL FACTORS
a. Size. The factor of size is a definite problem in estimating exposure
techniques, but it affords certain advantages in the shorter SID can be used without
incurring excessive image distortion. When the x-ray tube has a relatively low mA
capacity, the shorter SID permits the use of a shorter exposure time. Also, the size of
the patient will determine the size of the film to be used. The factor should always be
considered before going to the ward for bedside radiography.
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