Which two positioning guidelines are correct for a lateral thoracic spine radiograph in a recumbent position?

For a lateral thoracic spine radiograph taken in a recumbent position, one of the key positioning guidelines is to have the arms forward and positioned perpendicular to the body. This positioning helps to ensure that the thoracic spine is clearly visualized without any obstructions from the arms. By positioning the arms this way, the radiographic field remains open, facilitating the best possible image quality while minimizing scatter and improving clarity of the thoracic vertebrae.

Proper arm positioning plays a crucial role in obtaining accurate lateral images of the spine, as it prevents overlapping of anatomical structures that could obscure diagnostic details. The alignment of the arms in this manner contributes significantly to achieving an optimal radiograph, which is essential for accurate interpretation and diagnosis.