Which of the following is a correct patient position for a medial oblique fifth digit radiograph?

• A. Sitting
• B. Standing
• C. Supine
• D. Prone

Answer: (A)

Positioning for a medial oblique view of the fifth digit relies on having the hand and forearm supported so you can rotate the hand toward the midline and hold that oblique angle steadily. Sitting at the end of the table gives stable support for the forearm on a surface and makes it easy to rotate the hand medially about 45 degrees without awkward or unstable positions. This setup minimizes motion and lets the joints of the little finger be seen in profile. Standing can be harder to maintain a precise oblique angle, while supine or prone positions place the arm in less natural, less stable orientations for rotating the hand.