How should a patient be positioned for a lateral radiograph of the left stifle in a suspected cruciate ligament injury case?

For a lateral radiograph of the left stifle, positioning the patient in left lateral recumbency with the leg against the cassette is optimal. This position allows for a clear view of the left stifle joint while keeping the area of interest in the proper alignment with the radiographic beam.

When the left limb is placed in this position, the joint structures can be adequately visualized without overlap from adjacent bones, which is critical in assessing any potential damage to the cruciate ligament. Additionally, left lateral recumbency minimizes movement and aids in acquiring a stable and accurate image.

In contrast, positioning the patient in right lateral recumbency would obstruct the view of the left stifle, making it difficult to diagnose potential injuries. Dorsal and ventral recumbency also do not provide the necessary alignment and visibility of the joint, as they change the orientation of the stifle in relation to the radiographic plate, potentially leading to unclear or misleading images. Thus, left lateral recumbency is the most effective way to visualize the left stifle for assessing cruciate ligament injuries.