Patients with rheumatoid arthritis often have cervical spine disease that can cause subluxation of the temporomandibular joint during intubation. Completing the x-ray preoperatively enables the anesthesia team to proceed in the safest manner. A swallow study to determine the patient’s ability to safely eat and drink is not indicated in this situation. A bone density scan is not as useful in determining anesthesia risks. A cardiac stress test is not the most useful exam for determining anesthesia risks in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis.