The posteroanterior skull view for pediatrics is one of two views to examine the skull and nasal bones. In neonatal imaging, it may be easier to perform this view anteroposteriorly.
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Indications
This projection demonstrates an overview of the entire skull and is useful in identifying fractures and foreign bodies in pediatric patients.
Patient position
the patient is erect or supine
the patient's forehead and nose is placed against the detector
for neonatal or supine imaging, the back of the patient's head is in contact with the detector
Technical factors
posteroanterior projection
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centering point
the beam is exiting at the nasion
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collimation
superior to the skin margins
inferior to include the most inferior aspects of the skull
lateral to include the skin margin
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orientation
portrait
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detector size
24 cm x 30 cm
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exposure 1
73-77 kVp
4-12 mAs
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SID
100 cm
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grid
no
Image technical evaluation
The petrous ridge will overlap the orbits, and the innominate lines should be equal distance from the lateral borders of the orbits 2. A physical metal marker is ideal for pediatric imaging.
Practical points
Preparing the room beforehand (setting up the detector, exposure and preparing lead gowns) is important as pediatric patients may not remain still.
Immobilization techniques
The radiograph should be free from motion artifacts and rotation to avoid repeated x-rays.
it may be necessary for the parent or radiographer to hold the patient in position
ideally, the parent should be in the child's direct line of sight
techniques will vary based on the department
distraction techniques can be utilized to avoid scattered radiation to parents and staff 3
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