LESSON 5
POSITIONING FOR EXAMS OF THE UPPER EXTREMITIES
Section I. RADIOGRAPHIC PROJECTIONS OF THE HAND
5-1.
INTRODUCTION
a. Lesson Format. In this lesson, a group of related projections for the upper
extremities will be presented. For each projection, two figures are provided (figure 5-1).
The first depicts the body part that is of clinical interest, with labels naming the various
parts of the anatomical structure; the second shows proper placement of the patient.
Where feasible, the anatomical structure to be demonstrated is highlighted in gray in the
labeled drawing. (A line drawing rather than a photograph of a radiograph was selected
to ensure clarity of depiction.)
b. Specifications (Order of Procedure). Following the two figures is the order
of procedure, a laundry list of specifications for the projection (figure 5-2). The laundry
list consists of information essential to ensuring proper visualization of the body part.
The information (specifications) provided for each position will always be presented in
the same order, for ease of comparison. (See bottom inset, figure 5-1).
c. Common information. Some information common to a group of projections
will be presented at the beginning of the lesson instead of being repeated over and over
again for each position. In this lesson, for example, the information pertaining to the
patient's dress will be presented at the outset; but this common information should be
kept in mind as you proceed to read about each position.
d. The Order of Procedure (Position Specification). The information
generally included in the laundry list (position specifications) is explained in figure 5-2.
Note that items a, b, and c are the position specific or unique information is provided for
these entries.
e. How to Use This Material. There are over 100 positions presented in
MD0961, Standard Positioning Techniques I, and MD0962, Standard Positioning
Techniques II. The majority are in MD0962, the sequel to this subcourse. Many of the
specifications for the various positions are similar. Unless you zero in on the critical
distinguishing features of each position, the information presented here can easily
become muddled in your mind. You cannot memorize all the facts about these
positions. What you can do is to learn the critical differences among positions. Don't let
yourself feel overwhelmed. Instead, take one position at a time. (Relax and forget
about all the other positions to be covered for the time being.)
MD0961
5-2
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