Imaging of the Cervical Spine > Technique > Plain Films

Plain Films

Plain films provide the quickest way to survey the cervical spine. An adequate spine series includes three views: a true lateral view (which must include all seven cervical vertebrae as well as the C7-T1 junction), an AP view, and an open-mouth odontoid view. These three views do not require the patient to move his neck, and should be obtained without the removal of the cervical collar.