At what level should measurements be taken for lateral thoracic positioning?

Measurements for lateral thoracic positioning should be taken at the level of T6. This is because T6 is generally considered the optimal level for capturing the majority of thoracic structures while maintaining anatomical accuracy and avoiding unnecessary overlap of surrounding tissues. The thoracic cage is primarily located between T1 and T12, but T6 is often used clinically because it corresponds to a central region of the thorax where key anatomical landmarks, such as the heart and lungs, are located. This positioning ensures effective imaging of the thoracic cavity while allowing for optimal visualization of important structures.