AP (anteroposterior) and lateral are standard X‑ray projections. AP means the X‑ray beam passes from front to back with the detector behind the patient, often used when supine or upright and may magnify anterior structures. Lateral is taken from the side, perpendicular to AP, providing depth and improved visualization of alignment, cavities or posterior anatomy to localize lesions, fractures or effusions.

A normal lateral elbow X‑ray shows proper alignment of the distal humerus with the olecranon and proximal radius/uln

For an AP elbow radiograph the arm is placed with the elbow fully extended and the forearm supinated (palm up) so the humeral epicondyles are parallel to the image receptor and the X‑ray beam passes anteroposterior through the joint. If full extension is painful or impossible, AP partial‑flexion views are taken. Center the elbow on the detector and avoid rotation.

Perform AP and lateral elbow radiographs with the patient seated beside the table. For AP: extend the elbow, supinate the hand, align humeral epicondyles parallel to the detector and center the X‑ray beam on the joint. For lateral: flex the elbow 90°, place the medial aspect on the detector so epicondyles are perpendicular, thumb up; center the beam at the joint. Use shielding and immobilize as needed.

AP (anteroposterior) and lateral are two standard radiographic projections—each counts as a single view. The AP view is a frontal projection with the X‑ray beam passing front-to-back; the lateral is a side projection at 90° to the AP. Obtaining both provides two orthogonal views that help localize lesions, evaluate anatomy, and improve diagnostic accuracy compared with a single projection.

In X‑ray imaging, "lateral" means a side view where the X‑ray beam travels from one side of the body to the other, creating a profile image. Lateral views separate overlapping structures seen on front or back projections and improve visualization of depth and relationships (for example chest, spine, or joint exams) to detect fractures, fluid, or anatomical abnormalities.