Which positioning technique is used to align the detector for the cranio-caudal (CC) projection?

The cranio-caudal (CC) projection is a common mammographic view that provides a profile of the breast from top to bottom. To effectively capture this view, the detector must be aligned properly, and the correct positioning technique involves placing it at the level of the raised inframammary fold (IMF).

This alignment is essential because it ensures that the breast is adequately compressed between the detector and the compression paddle, helping to visualize the entire breast tissue while minimizing motion blur and maintaining image quality. The raised IMF serves as a natural landmark that indicates where the base of the breast is, allowing for optimal positioning that captures the maximum amount of breast tissue in the image.

In contrast, other positioning techniques that refer to the patient's hip level, above the collarbone, or midway between the shoulder and elbow do not align with the anatomical landmarks relevant for the cranio-caudal view. These techniques may not provide the necessary alignment for optimal imaging, as they do not consider the specific breast anatomy and the necessity to visualize the upper quadrants of the breast effectively.