X-ray Interpretation

Where plain radiography is indicated, three films are taken of the cervical spine: lateral, anteroposterior (AP) and open mouth (peg) views.

This combination allows for good visualisation of the entire cervical spine. A lateral view in isolation will only detect 75% of c-spine injuries.

The x-rays can be interpreted using the ABCD system:

Adequacy/Alignment

Bones

Cartilage

Dense soft tissues

Learning Bite

All plain radiographs of the spine may be assessed using the ABCD system.