When positioning for the lateral elbow, how should the elbow be flexed?

For a lateral elbow positioning, the elbow is conventionally flexed to 90 degrees. This positioning allows for the best visualization of the joint space, particularly the olecranon process and the surrounding anatomy. When the elbow is flexed to 90 degrees, it helps to accurately demonstrate the triceps, the joint margins, and the involvement of the humerus and radius, which are critical for diagnosing any injuries or conditions affecting the elbow joint.

Additionally, a 90-degree flexion maintains the proper alignment of the forearm and upper arm, minimizing distortion in the radiographic image, which is crucial for a clear and detailed depiction of the elbow's structure. Other degrees of flexion may compromise the quality of the image or obscure essential anatomical details critical for accurate diagnosis.