Diagnostic Tests for the Shoulder

Radiographic Evaluation of the Shoulder

Standard Radiographs

• Routine Antero-posterior (AP) - allows visualisation of the gleno-humeral joint but there is overlap between the humeral head and the glenoid
• True AP - allows good visualisation of the gleno-humeral joint without overlap of the humeral head with the glenoid
• Scapular Y view - lateral view of the scapula
• Axillary lateral - essential for cases in which shoulder dislocation is suspected

Radiographs according to Pathology

Impingement Syndrome / Rotator cuff Disease

• AP - Greater tuberosity cysts, sclerosis, subacromial spurs and sclerosis underneath the acromion may be seen in Impingement syndrome. With long standing rotator cuff disease, superior displacement of the proximal humerus is seen
• Rockwood view (30 degrees caudal tilt) - allows visualisation of subaromial spurs
• Supraspinatus outlet view - allows visualisation of the acromion.

Sternoclavicular joint

• Hobb's view
• Serendipity view

Anterior instability of the Shoulder

• West Point axillary lateral - allows visualistion of a Bony Bankart lesion
• Stryer Notch view - allows visulaisation of a Hill Sachs lesion


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