The Harris-Beath projection is most commonly used to visualize which condition?

• A. Calcaneal fracture
• B. Hallux valgus
• C. Lisfranc injury
• D. Middle facet talocalcaneal coalition

Answer: (D)

The Harris-Beath projection is a specialized view aimed at the subtalar joint to reveal talocalcaneal coalitions, with the middle facet being the site most commonly involved. By angling and positioning the foot to bring the middle facet into profile, this projection reduces overlapping of the talus and calcaneus and makes any osseous bridge or abnormal joint space at that facet more conspicuous. That targeted visibility is why this view is preferred for detecting a talocalcaneal coalition, particularly at the middle facet. Other conditions listed rely on different radiographic views or clinical scenarios (calcaneal fractures, hallux valgus, Lisfranc injuries), which is why this projection isn’t the usual choice for those.