What is the appropriate collimation for the oblique cervical view?

The appropriate collimation for the oblique cervical view is critical in ensuring that the necessary anatomical structures are visualized while minimizing patient exposure to radiation. For this view, collimation serves to focus on both the primary area of interest (the cervical vertebrae) and the necessary anatomical landmarks associated with the cervical spine.

In this instance, the correct collimation is vertical to the mid-ear, which allows for an alignment that optimally includes the cervical spine while providing a clear view of the vertebral segments. Additionally, by collating horizontally to include the vertebral segments, the imaging will capture the critical structures of the cervical spine that need to be evaluated in the oblique view. This positioning helps achieve the best diagnostic quality without including unnecessary surrounding tissues that do not pertain to the primary examination.

Proper collimation techniques are essential for enhancing image quality and ensuring that radiographs are diagnostically useful while also adhering to the principles of radiation protection.