AP view C-spine X-ray with yellow (lateral) and blue (spinous process) lines added 1 Odontoid/open-mouth view The spinous process line runs down through each spinous process from C1 to C7 (represented by the blue line in the image below). The two lateral lines of the AP view run down either side of the vertebral bodies (represented by the yellow lines in the image below). The green channel is the space occupied by the spinal cord. Lateral cervical spine X-ray with red (spinolaminar), orange (posterior longitudinal) and yellow (anterior longitudinal) lines added. The spinolaminar line runs along the anterior edge of the spinous processes (at the junction of the spinous process and the laminae). The posterior longitudinal line runs along the posterior surface of the vertebral bodies. The anterior longitudinal line runs along the anterior surface of the vertebral bodies. There are multiple lines you need to assess across each of the three radiograph views which should run uninterrupted in healthy individuals. AdequacyĬheck the radiograph’s adequacy to ensure you are able to clearly see all relevant structures (you should be able to see from C1 down to the C7/T1 junction). InterpretationĪ structured approach to cervical spine X-ray interpretation is discussed below. If you are struggling to see down to the level of C7/T1, a fourth “ swimmer’s view” can be requested. Typically there are three standard views provided when a cervical spine X-ray is performed, these include a lateral, antero-posterior (AP) and odontoid/open-mouth view. You might also be interested in our premium collection of 1,000+ ready-made OSCE Stations, including a range of radiology interpretation stations ✨ Acquire all necessary views

Normal healthy cervical spine x ray