Novel angle measurements for assessment of shoulder location using the scapular y radiograph.

Abstract

Shoulder dislocation is an injury with potential long-term consequences that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. Patient positioning and imperfect radiographic views may result in discomfort, added examination time, and problematic diagnosis. The scapular Y radiograph has been shown to be useful in diagnosing shoulder dislocation but is not considered sufficient in isolation. Using a synthetic bone shoulder model, we propose a novel technique wherein osseous landmarks are used to form angles that significantly improved diagnostic accuracy for shoulder dislocation, even in significantly rotated and otherwise indeterminate scapular Y radiographs.