Chest X-Ray Lateral

Retrosternal, retrocardiac structures and lung bases.

Patient standing with the left side against the detector.
Arms raised.
Central ray: perpendicular to the image receptor.

T7, mid-coronal plane (at the level of the inferior angle of the scapula)

Homologous ribs IV–X bilaterally superimposed (confirms no rotation).
Superimposition of posterior rib margins.
T4–T12 vertebrae distinguishable.
Both costophrenic angles included.
Sternum in profile without rotation.

Perform on inspiration.
Check for metallic objects.
Raise arms anteriorly to clear the thorax.
Left side preferred over right to avoid geometric magnification of cardiac structures.