A four-view lumbar x-ray consisting of AP (anterior-posterior), Lateral, Flexion, and Extension views is commonly referred to as a lumbar spine flexion and extension series or a lumbar spine minimum 4 views.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
• AP (Anterior-Posterior) View:
This view shows the spine from the front to the back, allowing visualization of the vertebral bodies and spinous processes.
• Lateral View:
This view shows the spine from the side, allowing visualization of the vertebral bodies, pedicles, and facet joints.
• Flexion View:
This view is taken with the patient bending forward to assess spinal stability and movement.
• Extension View:
This view is taken with the patient bending backward to assess spinal stability and movement.
• Purpose:
These views help doctors assess the alignment, stability, and any potential issues with the lumbar spine, such as fractures or dislocations
A four-view X-ray consisting of AP (anterior-posterior), Lateral, Flexion, and Extension images is commonly referred to as a “cervical spine series” or “cervical spine X-ray with flexion and extension views”.
Here’s a more detailed explanation:
• AP (Anterior-Posterior): This view shows the spine from the front to the back.
• Lateral: This view shows the spine from the side.
• Flexion: This view is taken with the neck bent forward, which can help visualize the intervertebral spaces and soft tissues.
• Extension: This view is taken with the neck bent backward, which can also help visualize the intervertebral spaces and soft tissues.
Why are these views taken?
• To assess the cervical spine:
These views are used to help diagnose various conditions or injuries of the neck and upper back, such as fractures, dislocations, or soft tissue damage.
• To evaluate spinal alignment and stability:
Flexion and extension views can help assess the stability of the spine and identify any abnormal movements or instability.
• To detect compression fractures:
These views can help identify compression fractures in the cervical vertebrae.
• To assess ligamentous lesions:
Flexion and extension views can help identify ligamentous lesions.
• To assess the intervertebral spaces:
These views can help visualize the intervertebral spaces and identify any narrowing or widening.
• To assess the zygapophyseal joints:
These views can help visualize the zygapophyseal joints and identify any abnormalities