In the lateral wrist positioning, how should the elbow be positioned?

In lateral wrist positioning, the elbow should be flexed at 90° with the thumb pointing up. This positioning helps ensure that the wrist is parallel to the film or detector and that the area of interest is adequately visualized.

When the elbow is flexed at 90°, it provides stability to the wrist joint and allows for a true lateral view, which is crucial for accurately assessing the anatomy and any potential pathologies in the wrist. Having the thumb pointed up helps to position the hand correctly and can also allow for better visualization of the carpal bones and joints.

This specific position helps radiographers achieve optimal imaging results and reduces the risk of obliquity that may occur if the elbow is in a different position. By ensuring that the forearm and wrist are in a straight line, the radiograph will provide clearer detail and assist in diagnosing any conditions affecting the wrist.