In lateral stifle radiographs, where should the cranial or dorsal side be positioned?

In lateral stifle radiographs, the cranial or dorsal side of the limb should be positioned to the left. This positioning adheres to conventional radiographic standards where the cranial aspect of the body part is consistently oriented to the left side of the film or digital image. This helps maintain consistency across radiographs, making it easier for veterinarians and radiologists to interpret the images accurately. By standardizing the orientation, practitioners can more quickly assess anatomy and any potential abnormalities, as they will always know the expected placement of anatomical landmarks.

Utilizing this consistent orientation also aids in communication among veterinary professionals, as everyone understands that the left side of the radiograph indicates the cranial part regardless of the specific limb or joint being imaged.