How should the tube be angled for short patients during MLO positioning?

When positioning the mammography tube for short patients during the mediolateral oblique (MLO) view, angling the tube at approximately 30-40 degrees is crucial for obtaining optimal imaging results. This angle allows for the appropriate projection of the breast tissue, ensuring that it is well visualized within the field of view. A slight incline helps to accommodate the anatomical differences seen in shorter patients, such as less vertical distance from the breast to the chest wall.

Using an angle within this range facilitates capturing the breast tissue from the proper perspective, which is essential for effective cancer screening and accurate diagnostics. Proper positioning minimizes tissue overlap and improves the ability to detect any abnormalities. Careful attention to the tube angle contributes to the quality of the image and ultimately aids in accurate assessments of breast health.

The other angle choices would either be too steep or too shallow, which could compromise the quality of the mammogram. For instance, greater angles such as 40-50 degrees or 50-60 degrees might overly compress the breast or misrepresent the anatomical structures, potentially leading to missed findings. An angle of no specific requirement could result in variability and inconsistency in imaging, making it challenging to standardize techniques for different patients. Hence, using the recommended