X-Ray Humerus AP and Lateral-Left
The humerus X-ray is an imaging exam usually used to detect traumatic injury to the shaft of the humerus. The humerus is the most prominent and tallest bone of the arms and extends from the shoulder to the elbow. It consists of two ends (proximal and distal) and a shaft. The humerus is joined to the scapula at the glenohumeral or shoulder joint, so it is responsible for the shoulder's mobility.
Doctors usually order humerus X-rays to diagnose and confirm significant fractures of the humeral shaft or to confirm symptomatic metastatic lesions. A fracture in the middle of the humeral shaft may cause damage to the brachial arteries and radial nerves tightly coiled in the radial groove of the humerus. This radial nerve is responsible for the extensors in the wrist. Suppose a midshaft fracture does occur and these nerves are damaged. In that case, severe conditions like paralysis of the extensors and wrist, known as "wrist drop," can occur. The area under the proximal end, referred to as the surgical neck of the humerus, is also a frequent fracture site, typically due to a direct blow to the area or falling on an outstretched hand. This fracture can cause additional nerve damage, resulting in paralysis in the link and tear minor muscles. The patient has difficulty in the mobility of the affected arm and a loss of sensation in said arm. However, suppose your doctor suspects an occult fracture at the proximal (top of humerus) or distal (bottom of humus). In that case, they might decide to do a separate Elbow AP Lateral or shoulder X-ray.
Your doctor may order a radiograph of the humerus for a variety of reasons, including
A humerus X-ray doesn't require any special preparation. Tell your physician if you have a surgically implanted device that can interfere with the procedure (e.g., a pacemaker, cochlear implants, artificial heart valve, or a metal plate) For the humerus X-ray, the technician may also ask you to remove your clothes and don a hospital gown before the process. You will also have to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and dentures as they can interfere with the X-ray image. It is also critical to tell the doctor if you may be pregnant since fetuses are more susceptible to radiation from X-rays. The doctor or technician will thus use a protective lead apron over your midsection if you are pregnant.- Trauma
- Bony tenderness at the glenohumeral joint/region
- Restriction of abduction
- Suspected dislocation
- Suspected bone tumors
Do you need to prepare for the X-ray?
A humerus radiograph proceeds in one of the following projections or views:
- AP (anteroposterior) view: This view shows the entire shaft of the humerus in its natural position. This view will require you to stand with your back to the image sensor. The problematic arm is centered in front of the detector and sometimes slightly rotated for the best possible image.
- Lateral view: Your doctor may order this view to see a side profile view of the humerus, which is needed to know the extent and direction of any dislocations and fractures. The technician will direct you to stand perpendicular to the image receptor, with your elbow bent at a right angle and preferably your hand on your stomach. If you are in pain and struggle to maintain the position, they may give you a brace to hold your arm in place.
Once taken, the technician will give your X-rays to a radiologist who is a medical professional who's specially trained in reading and understanding radiographs. The radiologist will then write out a report which they will share with your primary physician. Your doctor will then discuss the information with you. A treatment plan will begin once the doctor has determined if you have a fractured or dislocated bone, arthritis, or other bone degenerative diseases.
Related X-rays:
Shoulder X-ray, Clavicle X-ray, Scapula X-ray, Shoulder 2 Views
Frequently ordered together
X-Ray Humerus AP & Lateral
X-Ray Humerus AP and Lateral-Right
MRI HUMERUS with and without CONTRAST
MRI HUMERUS with and without CONTRAST-Right
MRI HUMERUS with and without CONTRAST-Left
MRI HUMERUS WITHOUT CONTRAST
MRI HUMERUS WITHOUT CONTRAST-Right
MRI HUMERUS WITHOUT CONTRAST-Left
150.00$
65.00$
780.00$
625.00$
625.00$
780.00$
440.00$
440.00$
