Researchers from the United States examined the effect of X-ray beam positioning on the intra- and inter-observer variability of measurements of palmar angle and sole thickness obtained from lateromedial and dorsopalmar foot radiographs.

One technique centered the X-ray beam at the coronary band and the other at the hoof-ground interface. Nine measurements were taken from each of 24 feet by three observers each repeating the technique three times. Measurements of the palmar angle, medial sole thickness and lateral sole thickness varied significantly between the two techniques. There was less variability in the palmar angle measurements when the X-ray beam was aimed at the hoof-ground interface. Other measurements were less affected by the X-ray technique used, but the authors suggest a preference for centering the beam at the hoof-ground interface.

— Staples E et al. EVE 2022;34:581