In which projection do the humeral epicondyles form a perpendicular plane to the image receptor?

The lateral elbow projection is characterized by the humeral epicondyles being oriented in a manner that creates a perpendicular plane to the image receptor. This positioning is essential as it allows for optimal visualization of the anatomy of the elbow joint, including the humeral condyles, the olecranon process of the ulna, and the radial head to ensure accurate assessment of any potential injuries or pathologies.

When the elbow is positioned laterally, the axis of the forearm remains parallel to the image receptor, allowing the humeral epicondyles, which are bony prominences located at the distal end of the humerus, to align perpendicularly. This technique helps minimize distortion and superimposition, resulting in a clearer and more diagnostic image.

In other projections, such as the AP (anteroposterior) elbow, the epicondyles are not positioned perpendicular to the receptor; instead, they are oriented parallel, which changes the visual relationships of the structures involved. The oblique elbow would involve an angled projection that would not yield a perpendicular orientation, while the axial elbow projection involves angling the central ray, which further alters the relationship of the epicondyles to the image receptor. Thus, understanding the proper positioning in a lateral elbow projection is