Which structure do Lumbar Obliques evaluate?

Which structure do Lumbar Obliques evaluate?

• A. Intervertebral discs
• B. Spinal canal
• C. Pars Interarticularis
• D. Vertebral bodies

Answer: (C)

Lumbar oblique views are designed to visualize the pars interarticularis, the portion of the vertebra between the superior and inferior articular facets. When you tilt the spine into an oblique position, the pars interarticularis is brought into profile, producing the classic “Scotty dog” appearance. A fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis—spondylolysis—shows up as a collar around the neck of the dog, making this projection the best way to assess that structure. The other structures aren’t the focus of this view. Intervertebral discs are better evaluated with MRI or CT, not by plain oblique radiographs. The spinal canal is likewise best assessed with MRI (or CT in some cases). Vertebral bodies are seen in many radiographic views, but the oblique projection is chosen specifically to highlight the pars interarticularis and any potential fracture there.

Lumbar oblique views are designed to visualize the pars interarticularis, the portion of the vertebra between the superior and inferior articular facets. When you tilt the spine into an oblique position, the pars interarticularis is brought into profile, producing the classic “Scotty dog” appearance. A fracture or defect in the pars interarticularis—spondylolysis—shows up as a collar around the neck of the dog, making this projection the best way to assess that structure.

The other structures aren’t the focus of this view. Intervertebral discs are better evaluated with MRI or CT, not by plain oblique radiographs. The spinal canal is likewise best assessed with MRI (or CT in some cases). Vertebral bodies are seen in many radiographic views, but the oblique projection is chosen specifically to highlight the pars interarticularis and any potential fracture there.