In an AP (anteroposterior) projection of the knee, where is the central ray directed?

  1. Through the lateral condyle
  2. Just above the patella
  3. Through the joint space
  4. Through the tibial tuberosity

Answer (Detailed Solution Below)

Option 3 : Through the joint space

Detailed Solution

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Correct Answer: Through the joint space
Rationale:
  • In an AP (anteroposterior) projection of the knee, the central ray is directed through the joint space. This positioning ensures that the structures of the knee, including the femur, tibia, and patella, are clearly visualized without distortion.
  • Proper alignment of the central ray through the joint space is crucial for accurate assessment of joint alignment, detection of fractures, and evaluation of degenerative changes such as arthritis.
Explanation of Other Options:
Through the lateral condyle
  • Rationale: Directing the central ray through the lateral condyle would not provide a clear view of the entire knee joint. It might result in a distorted image, making it difficult to assess the overall joint structure and alignment.
Just above the patella
  • Rationale: Positioning the central ray just above the patella would not adequately visualize the knee joint space. The main objective of an AP projection is to assess the joint space and the alignment of the bones within the knee, which would be compromised with this positioning.
Through the tibial tuberosity
  • Rationale: Directing the central ray through the tibial tuberosity would focus the image on the anterior aspect of the tibia, missing the joint space. This positioning would not provide a comprehensive view of the knee joint and its components.
Conclusion:
  • For an accurate AP projection of the knee, the central ray must be directed through the joint space. This ensures a clear and undistorted image of the knee joint, which is essential for proper diagnosis and evaluation of knee pathologies.
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