Which projection is commonly used to view a fracture of the posterior cranium?

The anteroposterior (AP) axial projection is particularly effective for visualizing fractures of the posterior cranium due to its orientation. This projection allows for an angle that can better demonstrate the occipital bone and areas related to the posterior cranial fossa. By aligning the x-ray beam along the long axis of the skull and targeting the cervical spine and the base of the skull, it highlights any abnormalities, such as fractures, in these regions more clearly than other projections.

In contrast, the lateral projection primarily provides a side view, which may not adequately reveal specific details of fractures occurring at the back of the skull. The posteroanterior (PA) projection focuses on imaging from the back to the front, which might obscure details of posterior fractures due to the alignment of the x-ray beam. The submentovertex (SMV) projection offers a unique view that is better suited for visualizing the base of the skull but is less effective for identifying posterior cranium fractures compared to the AP axial projection. Hence, the AP axial projection remains the preferred choice for effectively assessing fractures in the posterior cranium.