RadteraXR Shoulder
XRNo contrastMSK
Indications
- Shoulder pain/trauma
- Suspected fracture/dislocation
- Rotator cuff/impingement evaluation
- Arthritis
- Postoperative/hardware evaluation
Patient prep
- Remove clothing with radiopaque objects over shoulder; gown
Contrast
None / non-contrast
Technique
- AP external rotation: erect or supine, arm in external rotation (palm forward) to show greater tuberosity in profile, CR to ~1 inch inferior to coracoid
- AP internal rotation: arm internally rotated (epicondyles perpendicular to IR) showing lesser tuberosity/humerus in lateral
- If trauma/dislocation: do NOT rotate; obtain neutral AP plus scapular Y and/or axillary
- SID 40 inches; grid; kVp ~70-80
Series / Sequences
| # | Series / Sequence | Plane | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | AP external rotation | Frontal | Palm up/external rotation; greater tubercle in profile; true AP of humerus |
| 2 | AP internal rotation | Frontal | Internal rotation; humerus in lateral position; lesser tubercle in profile |
Key points
- Scapular Y (PA oblique) view to assess anterior/posterior dislocation
- Axillary (inferosuperior) view to confirm glenohumeral relationship/dislocation
- Grashey (AP oblique, 35-45 deg) for open glenohumeral joint space
- In acute trauma replace rotation views with neutral AP + scapular Y + axillary
- Outlet/Neer view for impingement
References
• Bontrager's Handbook - Shoulder
• Merrill's Atlas Vol 1 - Shoulder Girdle
• Radiopaedia: Shoulder series link
• Merrill's Atlas Vol 1 - Shoulder Girdle
• Radiopaedia: Shoulder series link
Source: Researched — verify against your institution
Reference template — verify and adapt to your scanner, vendor and institution before clinical use. Not a substitute for clinical judgment.