For a lateral lumbar spine projection, where should the central ray enter?

In a lateral lumbar spine projection, the central ray should enter at the midcoronal plane. This positioning is crucial as it ensures an accurate representation of the lumbar vertebrae and surrounding structures in the lateral view. The midcoronal plane runs vertically through the body, dividing it into anterior and posterior sections, which helps in centralizing the lumbar region for optimal imaging.

In imaging, the midcoronal plane allows for the appropriate alignment of the lumbar spine, providing a clear view of the vertebral bodies and intervertebral disc spaces. This is important for diagnostic purposes, such as evaluating for conditions like fractures, degenerative diseases, or alignment issues.

The other options would not be appropriate for a lateral projection. Typically, the mid-sagittal plane is involved in anteroposterior views, while targeting the levels of T12 or L2 does not align with the ideal central ray position for a lateral view. Instead, the entry at the midcoronal plane allows the radiographer to capture the full lateral profile of the lumbar spine needed for proper diagnosis.