As radiologic technologists, we are using words that have special meaning to people in our field. These terms are called jargons – terms used only by certain professions.
Some of these radiographic positioning terminologies are listed below:
• Projection – refers to the direction of the central ray which travels through the body.
• View – is used when discussing a radiographic image. “View’ is the exact opposite term of “projection”.
• Position – refers to the specific body position or act of placing the px in the desired position in relation to the film or cassette or even in the table.
• Oblique – px is rotated between lateral and prone or lateral and supine position. It is always at angled at 45 degrees.
• Decubitus – px is in recumbent position and usually implies the used of horizontal plane.
• AP Projection- central ray passes from the anterior to posterior aspect of the body.
• PA Projection- central ray passes from the posterior to the anterior aspect of the body.
• Left lateral projection- CR passes from one side to another. From head, chest and abdomen it is named to the nearest side of the body.
Example: Mediolateral
• PA oblique and projection – a.k.a RAO position.
• Axial Projection- longitudinal central ray angle of 10 degrees more with the long axis of the body or body part.
• Tangential- CR touches the structure at one point skimming it and producing a profile projection. It is opposite of axial.
