Forearm AP

• Entire radius from styloid process to head.
• Entire ulna from styloid to olecranon process.
• Radial and ulnar shafts parallel.
• Radiocarpal joint space at the wrist.
• Proximal and distal radioulnar articulations.
• Distal humerus and wrist anatomy.

• Verify patient identity using two identifiers.
• Remove watches, bracelets, and radiopaque items from the arm.
• Seat the patient at the end of the table.
• Extend the forearm fully on the IR with palm facing up.
• Adjust table height so the entire forearm rests in the same plane.

At the midpoint of the forearm, approximately 2 inches proximal to the elbow joint.

Perpendicular to IR at the midpoint of the forearm, 2 inches proximal to the elbow joint.

kVp

60–70

mAs

2–4

SID

40" (102 cm)

Notes

Tabletop technique. Include both wrist and elbow joints.

• Entire radius and ulna visible from wrist to elbow.
• Radial and ulnar shafts parallel with no rotation.
• Wrist and elbow joints included in the collimation.
• Minimal superimposition of proximal radius and ulna.
• Bone trabeculae sharp, no motion blur.
• Collimation: 1 inch distal to the wrist, 1 inch above the elbow.

1. 1 Incomplete supination rotates the radius over the ulna.
2. 2 Lifting the shoulder or wrist changes the forearm angle.
3. 3 Off-center CR clips the distal wrist or proximal elbow.
4. 4 Motion blur from patient movement during exposure.

• Trauma evaluation for radius or ulna fracture.
• Forearm pain or injury assessment.
• Post-operative follow-up of forearm fixation hardware.
• Suspected Colles or Smith fracture.