What artifact should be avoided when obtaining lateral cervical spine images with a horizontal beam?

When obtaining lateral cervical spine images with a horizontal beam, it is crucial to minimize motion blur. Motion blur occurs when there is movement during the exposure, which can obscure fine details and lead to an inaccurate diagnosis. The cervical spine is particularly challenging to image due to the various soft tissues and the need for clear visualization of the vertebrae and spinal alignment.

In lateral images, any movement—in the patient or the equipment—can cause blurring that affects the clarity of the structures being assessed, making it difficult to evaluate vertebral alignment or detect pathologies. The use of a horizontal beam is designed to obtain a clearer view of the cervical region, and ensuring a stable position during exposure is essential to prevent motion blur.

In contrast, grid lines are generally an artifact due to the use of grids for scatter radiation management, overlapping vertebrae can occur due to improper positioning or angling, and contrast distortion typically relates to the use of contrast agents in imaging, which are less relevant in standard plain film radiography of the spine. Thus, safeguarding against motion blur is paramount for achieving high-quality lateral cervical spine images.