Description:  In this 4-lesson set, we discuss the methods to obtain the perfect thoracic radiographs including lateral, dorsoventral, ventrodorsal and tracheal views.  Time is spent discussing centering, positioning, phase of respiration and anatomic landmarks. In addition, these lessons provide examples of ideal radiographs for reference.  For the trachea lesson, discussion on how to obtain a cranial-caudal radiograph of the trachea to assess for tracheal collapse is reviewed.

Target audience: Technicians and veterinarians looking to improve their radiographic techniques

Learning objectives:

1. Understand the positioning for a lateral radiograph of the thorax including collimation.
2. Understand the landmarks and positioning for a ventrodorsal radiographic projection of the thorax
3. Understand the technique to obtain and cranial to caudal radiograph of the trachea to assess the diameter for tracheal collapse or evaluate for a cervical tracheal mass
4. Understand the landmarks and positioning for a dorsoventral radiograph of the thorax.

This course is worth approximately 15 minutes of CE/CPD.