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X-RAY BOTH SHOULDERS AP VIEW

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X-RAY Both Shoulders AP (Anteroposterior) View shows frontal views of both shoulder joints in a single X-ray study. This is used to assess both shoulders' bones, joints, and alignment. Can help diagnose fractures, dislocations, arthritis, changes in the joints, congenital abnormalities, and other causes of shoulder joint complaints. Comparing both shoulders is especially helpful with symptoms occurring on one side and/or when evaluating developmental or degenerative conditions.

Purpose of X-RAY Both Shoulders AP View

  • Evaluation of shoulder pain in one or both shoulders
  • Detection of fractures of the clavicle, scapula, or proximal humerus
  • Assessment of shoulder dislocation or subluxation
  • Evaluation of degenerative joint disease (arthritis)
  • Comparison of both shoulder joints for symmetry
  • Assessment following trauma or sports injuries
  • Monitoring healing after fractures or surgery
  • Preoperative and postoperative evaluation

Common Reasons for the Test

  • Shoulder pain
  • Injury after a fall or accident
  • Difficulty moving one or both shoulders
  • Suspected fracture
  • Suspected shoulder dislocation
  • Swelling around the shoulder joints
  • Arthritis or chronic shoulder stiffness
  • Follow-up after shoulder surgery

Structures Evaluated

  • Right and left humeral heads
  • Glenohumeral joints
  • Clavicles
  • Scapulae
  • Glenoid cavities
  • Acromioclavicular (AC) joints
  • Proximal humeri
  • Surrounding bony structures

Conditions That May Be Detected

  • Shoulder fractures
  • Shoulder dislocation or subluxation
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Calcific tendinitis
  • Congenital shoulder abnormalities
  • Bone cysts or tumors
  • Post-traumatic bone changes

Benefits

  • Quick and painless examination
  • Low radiation exposure
  • Simultaneous evaluation of both shoulders
  • Helps compare joint alignment and bony abnormalities
  • Widely available and cost-effective
  • Useful for diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up

Risks and Limitations

Radiation Exposure

  • Uses a small amount of X-ray radiation.
  • Considered safe when medically indicated.

Limitations

  • Soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and the rotator cuff are not clearly visualized.
  • MRI or ultrasound may be recommended if a soft tissue injury is suspected.

Conclusion

X-RAY Both Shoulders AP View is a rapid and efficient imaging test to be used in assessing bones and joints of both shoulders. It aids in diagnosing fractures, dislocations, arthritis, and other skeletal abnormalities, and allows for comparison of both shoulders for making an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

Test information: Fasting NOT needed

Reporting: Within 04 hours*

  • Usually, no fasting is required unless specifically advised by your doctor.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid garments with metal buttons, zippers, or shoulder accessories.
  • Remove necklaces, chains, earrings, bras with metal hooks, shoulder jewellery, or any metallic objects from the chest and shoulder region before the examination.
  • Inform the radiographer if you are pregnant or suspect pregnancy, as X-rays involve ionising radiation.
  • Carry all previous X-ray, CT, MRI, ultrasound reports, and your doctor's referral for comparison, if available.
  • Continue taking your prescribed medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
  • Inform the radiographer about any recent shoulder injury, surgery, joint replacement, implants, or difficulty raising your arms.
  • Wear clothing that allows easy exposure of both shoulders if required.
  • Arrive at the centre 15–20 minutes before your scheduled appointment.
* For details, please see service-related policies

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