Where should the beam be centered when performing a cross-table lateral cervical spine radiograph?

The beam should be centered at C4 when performing a cross-table lateral cervical spine radiograph because this region provides a good view of the upper cervical spine, including C3 through C7, while also allowing visualization of potential pathologies in the vertebrae and surrounding soft tissues. Centering at C4 ensures that both the upper and lower cervical segments are captured effectively, which is crucial for accurate assessment and diagnosis. Proper alignment and centering are essential to minimize distortion and ensure that all anatomical structures are clearly visualized on the radiograph. This positioning helps in obtaining the best diagnostic quality of the images necessary for clinical evaluation.