Humerus x-ray is an radiography examination, the indication for which is a suspicion of a diaphyseal fracture, periostitis, osteomyelitis, benign or malignant tumor of the humerus. The standard study is carried out in two projections (straight and lateral). In some cases, a picture is first taken in one projection, and when a pathology is detected, a second X-ray is prescribed to clarify the nature and localization of changes. No special training is required. In childhood and during gestation, routine radiography is replaced by other methods (CT, MRI). In the presence of emergency indications, there are no restrictions on the conduct of the study.
Indications
Humerus x-ray is prescribed if a fracture of the shoulder diaphysis, osteomyelitis or periostitis is suspected. In other areas of medicine (oncology, surgery, orthopedics), the technique can be used to identify malformations, malignant and benign neoplasms, and to assess the involvement of bone structures of the shoulder in the purulent-inflammatory process. The children’s age and the period of pregnancy are considered as contraindications to the planned study. In case of emergency pathology, life-threatening conditions, inability to use other methods of instrumental diagnostics (MRI, CT, ultrasound), there are no contraindications.
Methodology of conducting
As a rule, both images are taken in a sitting position, but if necessary, a straight and lateral radiograph of the humerus can be done by laying the patient on his back. For a direct snapshot, the patient is seated sideways to the table. The arm is pulled aside, straightened at the elbow joint and placed on the table with the palm up. Lateral x-ray is also performed in the position of the patient sitting sideways to the table. At the same time, his hand is placed on the table in the position of bending in the elbow joint with the palm down. The results of an emergency study are prepared within 10-20 minutes, during routine radiography, images and the radiologist’s conclusion can usually be collected within a few hours or the next day.
