APPENDIX
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
A
anatomic position: point of reference for all descriptions of body part
relationships; position is body erect, feet together, arms at sides, palms forward.
angled central ray: a central ray that forms less than a ninety degree angle with
the film.
anode: the positive end of the X-ray tube, the target where the electrons are
stopped.
anode film distance: see "source-to-image receptor distance."
anterior (ventral): refers to the front part of body or organ.
anteriorposterior projection (AP): a projection of the X-ray beam from an
anterior surface to a posterior surface.
artifact: anything not intended to be imaged on the radiograph; items other than
the anatomy of the patient.
aspect: the side or surface facing a given direction, for example, the dorsal
aspect.
B
base of support: an imaginary line created by those body parts that are in
contact with the floor or other horizontal surface, which keeps the body from
toppling over and provides stability in movements such as lifting, pushing, or
pulling.
body alignment: the lining up of body segments (pelvis, thorax, and head) in
proper relationship to each other to maintain proper body balance.
body position: the manner in which the patient is placed in relation to the
surrounding space; the body described in terms of the part closest to the film.
body mechanics: the safe and efficient use of the body in movement; proper
body alignment, movement, and balance.
Bucky (Potter-Bucky Diaphragm): sliding tray-like device found just below the
X-ray table that reduces secondary (scatter) radiation reaching the film.
MD0961
A-1