Anterior oblique projection in radiography of the traumatized shoulder

A series of 132 consecutive shoulder radiographs of traumatized patients was analyzed prospectively. Each shoulder examination included anteroposterior projections with external and internal rotation of the humerus and an anterior oblique projection. Each view was evaluated for the abnormalities that were identifiable on it. There were 84 normal examinations and 48 abnormal examinations. There were 29 fractures, dislocations, or acromioclavicular separations identified. Two fractures of the greater tuberosity were seen only on the anteroposterior projection with external rotation. One humeral head fracture and three scapular fractures were visualized only on the anterior oblique projection.