Which stomach position/projection is best for demonstrating the duodenal loop?

The best position for demonstrating the duodenal loop is the right anterior oblique (RAO) position. When the patient is positioned in this way, the duodenal loop, which is part of the small intestine and connects to the stomach, can be visualized more clearly. This positioning helps to separate and project the duodenal bulb away from other surrounding structures, reducing superimposition and enhancing clarity.

The RAO position also allows the duodenum to be positioned in a more favorable orientation relative to the x-ray beam, effectively demonstrating its contour and any potential pathologies present. The variation in angles during the RAO projection facilitates a better visualization of the anatomy, making it the optimal choice for diagnostic purposes.

Other positions, such as supine, right lateral, or PA, may not achieve the same level of detail for the duodenal loop due to the positioning of the bowel in relation to the radiographic beam, which can lead to overlapping structures and a decrease in diagnostic quality.