Sternoclavicular Joints PA Oblique is a radiography positioning projection of the Thorax. PA oblique SC joints, 15 degrees. SID 40". The centering point is located level of t3, over the affected sternoclavicular joint.. The central ray is perpendicular to ir at the level of t3.. Image-quality criteria include affected sternoclavicular joint clearly visualized and open., joint space visible without superimposition.. Standard exposure ranges from 65 to 75 kVp, 6 to 10 mAs, at an SID of 40 inches (102 cm).
Anatomy demonstrated
- Medial end of the affected clavicle.
- Manubrium of the sternum.
- Sternoclavicular joint articulation.
- Joint space and capsule.
- Proximal ribs and costal cartilages.
Patient preparation
- Verify patient identity using two identifiers.
- Remove all radiopaque objects from the neck and chest.
- Position patient in 15-degree oblique facing away from tube.
- Affected side raised and closest to the IR.
- Ensure the patient stands still without shoulder movement.
Position & centering point
Level of T3, over the affected sternoclavicular joint.
Central ray
Perpendicular to IR at the level of T3.
Exposure / technique
- kVp
- 65–75
- mAs
- 6–10
- SID
- 40" (102 cm)
- Notes
- No grid required. 15-degree obliquity separates the joint space.
Image-quality criteria
- Affected sternoclavicular joint clearly visualized and open.
- Joint space visible without superimposition.
- Medial clavicular end and sternum articulation sharply defined.
- Minimal superimposition of the opposite joint.
- Adequate soft tissue definition around the joint capsule.
- No rotation of the patient.
Common errors / ARRT traps
- 1 Inadequate obliquity (less than 15 degrees) overlaps the joints.
- 2 Excessive obliquity (more than 20 degrees) distorts the joint space.
- 3 Affected side not raised prevents visualization of the target joint.
- 4 Rotation forward or backward superimposes the joints.
- 5 Off-centered CR misses the affected sternoclavicular joint.
Clinical indications
- Detailed evaluation of SC joint dislocation or subluxation.
- Assessment of SC joint space narrowing or arthritis.
- Evaluation of SC joint separation, especially posterior dislocation.
- Detection of osteolysis of the distal clavicle.
Aligned to the 2025 ARRT Content Specifications.