American Society of Radiologic Technologist (ASRT) Practice Exam

The tangential projection, or Gaynor-Hart method, of the wrist evaluates the:

1. carpal bridge

2. carpal canal

3. trapezium

4. styloid tip of the radius

The correct answer is: carpal canal

The tangential projection, also known as the Gaynor-Hart method, is specifically designed to assess the carpal canal, which is an important anatomical feature in the wrist. This projection allows for a clear visualization of the structures that pass through the carpal canal, including the median nerve and the flexor tendons. In this projection, the patient's wrist is positioned so that the palm faces the IR (Image Receptor), which enables a focused look at the bony architecture of the carpal canal. This is particularly useful for diagnosing conditions such as carpal tunnel syndrome, where compression of the median nerve occurs. While options related to the carpal bridge, trapezium, and the styloid tip of the radius are relevant features of the wrist anatomy, they do not specifically pertain to the primary focus of the Gaynor-Hart method, which is aimed at highlighting the carpal canal. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting wrist radiographs effectively, especially in clinical settings.