If a lead is found to be anterior on a lateral image, what should be done?

When a lead is found to be positioned anteriorly on a lateral image, the appropriate action is to adjust it to posterior. This is critical because the proper placement of leads is essential for accurate diagnostic results and effective treatment, especially in cardiology and other medical fields where lead placement affects signal quality and patient safety.

Leads that are not positioned correctly could lead to suboptimal readings or ineffective treatment, particularly in electrocardiograms (ECGs) or cardiac pacing. Adjusting the lead ensures that it functions correctly and provides the necessary electrical signals from the targeted area of the heart or other organs.

Documentation is important, but it comes after ensuring leads are correctly placed to avoid misinterpretations in the future. Leaving the lead in its incorrect position could further complicate the patient's condition or lead to inaccurate assessments. While placing a new lead might seem like a solution, the preferred approach is usually to first adjust the existing lead before taking additional steps, unless there are other indications warranting a replacement.