When positioning a patient for an AP radiograph of the femur, the legs should ideally be:

When positioning a patient for an AP radiograph of the femur, the legs should ideally be externally rotated. This positioning is essential as it aligns the femoral neck with the radiographic beam and the image receptor. By externally rotating the legs, the greater trochanter of the femur is brought into a more optimal view, helping to reduce distortion and allowing for a clearer image of both the proximal and distal femur.

Maintaining a slight external rotation also helps to properly visualize the hip joint and avoid overlapping structures, which is particularly crucial when evaluating for fractures, dislocations, or other pathologies. This technique enhances the diagnostic quality of the image, ensuring that essential anatomical details are captured effectively.