What anatomical structures should be visible in a diagnostic lateral calcaneus radiograph?

• A. The tibia and fibula
• B. Entire calcaneus, the ankle joint, and adjacent tarsals
• C. Only calcaneus
• D. Calcaneus and metatarsals

Answer: (B)

In a diagnostic lateral calcaneus radiograph, the aim is to capture the entire calcaneus along with the ankle joint and the nearby tarsal joints. Seeing the full calcaneus lets you assess fracture lines and the shape of the bone from back to front, while including the ankle joint (the articulation with the talus and the lower leg) provides essential context for how the calcaneus sits relative to the tibia and fibula. Surrounding tarsals, especially the subtalar (talocalcaneal) and calcaneocuboid joints, give information about joint congruity and whether a fracture extends into these articulations. If these structures aren’t visible, you can miss important details about fracture extension or misalignment, which guides treatment. In short, the best view shows the entire calcaneus plus the ankle joint and adjacent tarsals to assess anatomy and injuries accurately.