What is the proper part positioning for a lateral ankle X-ray?

In a lateral ankle X-ray, positioning is crucial for obtaining clear and accurate images of the ankle joint and surrounding structures. The correct technique involves positioning the lateral aspect of the affected ankle against the imaging receptor or cassette. This orientation allows for proper visualization of the bones of the ankle, including the talus, calcaneus, and the distal fibula and tibia, ensuring that key anatomical relationships can be assessed.

When the lateral aspect is positioned correctly, it provides a true lateral view of the ankle, which is essential for evaluating fractures, dislocations, or other pathologies. The reliance on this specific positioning is underscored by the need to differentiate between various structures without superimposition, which is the primary goal of this imaging technique.

The other options do not achieve this necessary positioning: placing the foot flat against the cassette does not provide the lateral view required, elevating the foot at an angle compromises the lateral alignment and unilateral views of the foot again does not focus on the ankle structures in the necessary way. Thus, positioning the lateral aspect of the affected ankle correctly is key to obtaining a diagnostic-quality X-ray.