SHOULDER AP&LATERAL VIEW X-RAY SCAN

• Purpose: Visualise bones, joints, and soft-tissue outlines of the shoulder
• Views: Frontal (AP) and side (Lateral) angles for complete assessment
• Duration: 5–10 minutes
• Radiation: Low-dose, equivalent to 3–4 days of natural background exposure

What is Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan?

A Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan is a painless imaging test that captures two perpendicular pictures of your shoulder joint.

• AP (Antero-posterior) view shows the head of the humerus, glenoid cavity, clavicle, and acromion.
• Lateral (Trans-scapular or Y-view) reveals the relationship between the humeral head and glenoid socket, highlighting dislocations or fractures.

Types of Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan

1. Conventional Film X-Ray – classic method, still valid
2. Digital Radiography (DR) – instant images, enhanced contrast
3. Portable X-Ray – bedside option for immobile patients
   Cadabams Diagnostics uses digital DR for the sharpest detail and fastest turnaround.

• Glenohumeral joint alignment
• Acromioclavicular (AC) joint space
• Presence of fractures or dislocations
• Bone density and cortical integrity
• Signs of osteoarthritis or calcific deposits

• Diagnose acute trauma
• Monitor healing after surgery or fracture
• Plan physiotherapy or arthroscopy
• Rule out tumours or infections

You may need this scan if you have:

• Sudden shoulder pain after a fall or accident
• Chronic shoulder instability or recurrent dislocations
• Suspected fractures, arthritis, or bone spurs
• Persistent limited range of motion

Who should book?

• Athletes with sports injuries
• Elderly patients with osteoporosis
• Workers involved in heavy lifting
• Anyone with unexplained shoulder swelling or deformity

Benefits of Taking the Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan

• Quick: Completed in under 10 minutes
• Non-invasive: No injections or sedation
• Cost-effective: Affordable compared to MRI/CT
• Accurate: 90 %+ sensitivity for bony abnormalities

Illnesses Diagnosed with Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan

• Fractures (clavicle, humeral head, scapula)
• Dislocations (anterior, posterior, inferior)
• Osteoarthritis & rheumatoid changes
• Shoulder impingement syndrome
• Calcific tendinitis
• Bone tumours or cysts

Do’s

• Wear loose, metal-free clothing
• Remove jewellery, watches, and under-wired bras
• Bring previous X-rays for comparison

Don’ts

• No fasting required
• Avoid applying talcum powder or deodorant on the shoulder area

Pre-requisites Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan

• Doctor’s prescription mentioning the views needed
• Valid ID proof
• Pregnant or potentially pregnant patients must inform the technologist

Best Time to Take the Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan

Any time of day is suitable. For acute injuries, book within 24 hours of trauma for best diagnostic value.

Eligibility

• Age: Suitable for all ages, including children (with paediatric protocols)
• Weight Limit: DR machines accommodate up to 200 kg
• Contraindications: None, except pregnancy precautions

Procedure for Taking a Shoulder AP and Lateral View X-Ray Scan

1. Check-in: Front-desk registration, consent form
2. Positioning: Technician guides you to stand or sit upright
3. AP View: Arm in neutral or slight external rotation
4. Lateral View: Arm by the side or in scapular Y-position
5. Images: Captured in under 2 minutes each
6. Completion: Dress and collect receipt; digital report sent to your doctor within 30 minutes

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Pregnancy: Notify staff if you are or could be pregnant; lead shielding provided
• Pacemaker: Device safe, but inform technician
• Children: Use lowest radiation dose (ALARA principle)