Which three positions are acceptable for the parietoacanthial projection, Waters method, of the nasal bones?

Which three positions are acceptable for the parietoacanthial projection, Waters method, of the nasal bones?

• A. Prone; Standing at upright Bucky; Sitting at upright Bucky
• B. Supine; Standing at upright Bucky; Lying on back
• C. Prone; Supine; Seated
• D. Supine; Standing; Prone

Answer: (A)

The Waters method uses a parietoacanthial projection to visualize the nasal bones, so the key is getting the head positioned so the facial bones are projected correctly onto the film while the naso-ethmoid area is centered. This can be achieved with the patient in a prone position (face down with the chin raised to place the OML at the proper angle) or in an upright position at the upright Bucky, whether the patient is standing or sitting. These positions keep the necessary geometry consistent for a true parietoacanthial view of the nasal bones. Being supine or lying on the back disrupts that setup and isn’t appropriate for this projection.

The Waters method uses a parietoacanthial projection to visualize the nasal bones, so the key is getting the head positioned so the facial bones are projected correctly onto the film while the naso-ethmoid area is centered. This can be achieved with the patient in a prone position (face down with the chin raised to place the OML at the proper angle) or in an upright position at the upright Bucky, whether the patient is standing or sitting. These positions keep the necessary geometry consistent for a true parietoacanthial view of the nasal bones. Being supine or lying on the back disrupts that setup and isn’t appropriate for this projection.