Scapula: Radiographic Anatomy - Video Lesson

Hey, everybody. Welcome to today's lesson on radiographic anatomy demonstrated on routine projections of the scapula. In a previous lesson, we discussed the anatomy of the scapula and which radiographic projections are routinely performed. So let's discuss how to tie that information to the radiographs themselves. As a reminder, the routine radiographic projections of the scapula are AP and lateral. Take a look at this radiograph. What projection is being demonstrated? How do you know? It is an AP projection of the scapula. But even if you are able to identify the radiograph, it is important to know the evaluation criteria to ensure it is a true AP view. We can tell this is an AP because the lateral portion is free of superimposition, and the medial portion is seen through the thoracic structures. If the lateral border is free of superimposition, the affected arm was properly abducted ninety degrees with the hand supinated. Additionally, the inferior angle is included.