Which Upper GI position best demonstrates the pylorus and the duodenal loop?

Which Upper GI position best demonstrates the pylorus and the duodenal loop?

• A. AP upright
• B. 45 degree RAO
• C. PA projection
• D. Lateral

Answer: (B)

To clearly visualize the pylorus and the duodenal loop, you want a position that opens the stomach and places the duodenum in profile with minimal superimposition from the spine. The 45-degree RAO projection does this best. By rotating toward the right anterior oblique, the stomach is angled so the pyloric region and the C-shaped duodenal loop are projected away from the spine and seen without excessive overlap, giving a clear view of both structures. The other positions don’t separate the pylorus and duodenum from surrounding anatomy as effectively, so they’re less optimal for demonstrating this area.

To clearly visualize the pylorus and the duodenal loop, you want a position that opens the stomach and places the duodenum in profile with minimal superimposition from the spine. The 45-degree RAO projection does this best. By rotating toward the right anterior oblique, the stomach is angled so the pyloric region and the C-shaped duodenal loop are projected away from the spine and seen without excessive overlap, giving a clear view of both structures. The other positions don’t separate the pylorus and duodenum from surrounding anatomy as effectively, so they’re less optimal for demonstrating this area.